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LYRICS 


FROM  THE 


PSALTER 


A  METRICAL  RENDERING  OF  SELECTIONS 
FROM  THE  TSALMS 


BY 


h'   '■'■' 


EDWARD  A.  COLLIER,  D.D. 


THE    UNITED    PRESBYTERIAN 
BOARD      OF     PUBLICATION 

PITTSBURGH 


Copyright,  1907,  by  the 
UNITED  PRESBYTERIAN  BOARD  OF  PUBLICATION 


PREFACE 

This  volume  is  designed  primarily  for  devotional 
reading.  It  contains  a  selection  of  Psalms  and  parts  of 
Psalms  from  a  metrical  rendering  of  the  entire  Psalter. 
The  work  was  begun  twenty  years  ago,  and  much  of  it 
has  appeared  in  many  religious  papers.  Kind  com- 
mendation of  initial  portions,  by  the  late  Francis  N. 
Zabriskie,  D.  D.  (then  Editor  of  the  Christian  Intel- 
ligencer), and  especially  his  laconic  message  on  a  postal- 
card — "Keep  it  up" — encouraged  the  author  to  go  on 
until  the  whole  was  done.  By  many  others  than  the 
author  it  has  been  thought  that  a  volume  of  selections 
of  the  most  lyrical  portions  of  his  work  would  be  wel- 
comed for  devotional  reading  by  those  who  love  the 
songs  of  the  great  singer  of  the  Church. 

Strict  adherence  to  the  spirit  of  the  original  has  been 
conscientiously  sought.  With  that,  slight  freedom  of 
paraphrase  has  been  exercised  here  and  there,  as  seemed 
necessary  to  correct  and  smooth  versification.  Without 
some  degree  of  such  freedom,  as  Keble  long  ago  main- 
tained, a  good  acceptable  metrical  rendering  is  "im- 
possible." Rigid  literalism  makes  crudities  and  in- 
felicities of  rhythm  and  rhyme,  as  well  as  of  expression, 
unavoidable.  Occasional  expansion  also,  if  true  to  the 
thought  of  the  Psalm,  has  been  deemed  preferable  to  the 
compression  which  squeezes  out  every  vestige  of  poetry. 
These  unavoidable  results  of  strict  adherence  to  the 
ipsissima  verba  of  a  version  of  the  original  furnish  a 
striking  illustration  of  how  "the  letter  killeth."  None 
can  "paint  the  lily";  but  we  need  not  let  the  beauty  of 
the  Psalms  be  marred  and  bruised  by  the  iron-clad  feet 
of  English  verse. 


8  Preface 

If  the  author  has  contributed  anything  that  shall  be 
profitable  devotional  reading,  or  anything  that  may  be 
helpful  toward  an  ultimate  metrical  version  that  shall 
be  widely  acceptable  to  the  Church  for  the  service  of 
song  in  the  house  of  the  Lord,  the  pleasant  labor  of 
many  years  will  not  be  in  vain.  That  a  few  of  these  en- 
tire Psalms,  and  fragments  of  others, — stanzas,  couplets, 
lines,  are  to  be  found  in  the  'Tsalms  in  Meter,  pre- 
pared by  a  Committee  of  American  and  Canadian 
Churches,"  is  due  to  the  fact  that  the  author  was  a 
member  of  that  committee.  Nearly  everything  here 
given  was  written  and  printed  years  before  that  com- 
mittee began  its  work. 


LYRICS    FROM    THE 
PSALTER 


I. 


How  blest  the  man  who  day  by  day 
From  wicked  counsels  keeps  his  feet; 

Who  stands  not  in  the  sinners'  way, 
Nor  sits  upon  the  scorners'  seat. 

Jehovah's  law  is  his  delight, 

His  meditation  day  and  night. 

He,  like  a  tree  in  favored  field 
By  full  refreshing  streams  made  glad, 

Shall  ample  fruit  in  season  yield. 
And  stand  with  fadeless  verdure  clad; 

His  precious  fruit  matured  shall  be; 

His  work  all  prospered  well  by  Thee. 

Not  so  the  wicked  of  the  land; 

As  chaff  the  wind  doth  drive  apace — 
They  shall  not  in  the  judgment  stand, 

Nor  have  among  Thy  saints  a  place. 
Thou,  Lord,  the  righteous'  way  dost  know, 
But  ways  of  sin  shalt  overthrow. 


Psalm 


Lyrics  from  the  Psalter 


11. 

PART   I. 

O  wherefore  do  the  nations  rage? 

The  peoples  vainly  dream 
They  can  triumphant  warfare  wage 

Against  the  King  supreme? 

Against  the  Lord,  the  mighty  One, 

The  kings  rebellion  make; 
Against  His  own  anointed  Son 

The  rulers  counsel  take. 

Up  now  and  break  their  bands — they  say — 

And  from  their  yoke  be  free ; 
Come,  let  us  cast  their  cords  away 

And  walk  at  liberty. 

The  Lord,  enthroned  in  heaven's  far  height, 

Shall  all  their  rage  deride; 
With  words  of  wrathful  thunder  smite 

And  vex  their  swelling  pride. 

Though  worlds  with  wildest  tumults  ring 

Against  My  sovereign  will, 
Yet  I,  saith  He,  have  set  My  King 

Upon  My  holy  hill. 


PART  II. 

This  is  Jehovah's  firm  decree — 

Thou  art  My  only  Son, 
This  day  have  I  begotten  Thee, 

My  well-beloved  One. 

Psalm  11. 


Lyrics  from  the  Psalter 


Ask  Thou,  and  I  will  give  to  Thee 
The  nations  for  Thine  own, 

And  earth  from  end  to  end  shall  be 
Thy  heritage  alone. 

Thy  sceptre,  as  an  iron  rod. 
Shall  all  Thy  foes  dismay, 

And  break  them  as  an  earthen  clod — 
A  shattered  vase  of  clay. 

O  kings,  be  wise!  O  judges,  hear! 

Regard  His  warning  voice ; 
Serve  ye  the  Lord  with  filial  fear, 

With  trembling  hearts  rejoice. 

With  reverence  kiss  the  royal  Son, 

Adoring  homage  pay, 
Lest  by  His  wrath  ye  be  undone 

And  perish  in  the  way. 

For  soon  that  wrath  against  His  foes 
In  kindling  flames  will  break; 

But  O  the  blessedness  of  those 
Who  Him  their  refuge  make! 


III. 

O  Lord,  how  fast  my  foes  increase; 
How  many  rise  against  my  peace, 

And   at    my   sorrow   scoff. 
"There  is  no  help  for  him,"  they  say- 
"Now  let  us  make  his  soul  our  prey ; 

His  God  has  cast  him  off." 


Psalms  II.  and  III. 


Lyrics  fram  the  Psalter 


But  Thou,  my  shield  around  me  spread, 
Thou  dost  uplift  my  drooping  head, 

Thou  art  my  glory  still. 
To  Thee  I  call  in  every  grief, 
And  Thou  dost  swiftly  send  relief 

From  Thine  own  holy  hill. 

I  laid  me  down,  O  Lord,  and  slept; 
I  waked,  in  peace  and  safety  kept. 

Thine  arm  my  pillow  made. 
And  now,  though  myriads  in  their  wrath 
Encamp  around  my  morning  path, 

I  will  not  be  afraid. 

Arise,  and  save  me,  O  my  God, 
Who  oft  before,  with  wrathful  rod, 

Hast  smitten  down  my  foes. 
Salvation,  Lord,  belongs  to  Thee, 
Thy  blessing  on  Thy  people  be, 

Their  hopes  on  Thee  repose. 


IV. 

w.  4-8. 

O  sin  ye  not,  but  stand  in  dread. 

Revere  the  great  Triune ; 
In  silence  rest  upon  your  bed 

And  with  your  heart  commune. 

The  sacrifice  of  righteousness 

Present  before  His  throne; 
And  should  the  darkness  bring  distress, 

Trust  in  the  Lord  alone. 

Psalms  III.  and  IV. 

12 


Lyrics  from  the  Psalter 


Though  many  say,  in  troubles'  night — 
''Where  can  there  good  be  found?" 

Lord,  lift  on  us  the  blessed  light 
Thy  presence  scatters  round. 

Then  will  Thy  comforts  make  more  glad 

This  heavy  heart  of  mine 
Than  could  all  fields  with  harvests  clad, 

Or  clusters  of  the  vine. 

In  peace  I'll  lay  me  down  and  sleep, 
For  Thou  my  fear  dost  quell, 

In  solitude  and  darkness  deep 
Dost  make  me  safely  dwell. 


V. 

W.   1-8,   II,   12. 

Jehovah,  to  my  words  give  ear, 

My  meditation  heed. 
My  voice  of  supplication  hear. 

My  King,  my  God,  I  plead. 
For  unto  Thee  alone  I  pray, 
Whose  goodness  brings  the  dawn  of  day. 

To  Thee,  O  Lord,  my  voice  of  prayer 

Shall  in  the  morning  rise; 
Yea,  unto  Thee  will  I  prepare 

My  morning  sacrifice ; 
And  for  Thy  coming  look  and  wait, 
As  they  that  watch  at  morning's  gate. 

Psalms  IV.  and  V. 

13 


Lyrics  from  the  Psalter 


For  Thou  art  not  a  God  whose  heart 

In  evil  hath  dehght ; 
Sinners  sojourn  not  where  Thou  art, 

Nor  stand  before  Thy  sight. 
The  men  whose  lips  deceit  employ 
Thou  dost  abhor  and  wilt  destroy. 

But  I,  through  boundless  grace  divine, 

Will  in  Thy  house  appear; 
And  bowing  toward  Thy  holy  shrine, 

Will  worship  in  Thy  fear. 
Lead  me  in  righteousness  and  grace, 
Make  plain  Thy  way  before  my  face. 

Let  all  who  trust  in  Thee  rejoice, 

Protected  by  Thy  might; 
Yea,  let  them  shout  with  gladsome  voice 

Who  in  Thy  name  delight ; 
For  Thou  the  righteous  man  wilt  bless, 
And  shield  him  with  Thy  tenderness. 


VL 

In  anger,  Lord,  rebuke  me  not. 
Nor  in  Thy  wrath  chastise ; 

Consumed  by  Thy  displeasure  hot 
My  spirit  droops  and  dies. 

Have  mercy,  Lord,  remove  my  guilt. 
My  trembling  weakness  see; 

How  long,  O  Lord,  before  Thou  wilt 
Return  and  rescue  me? 

Psalms  V.  and  VL 

14 


Lyrics  from  the  Psalter 


O  for  Thy  loving-kindness'  sake, 

Have  pity,  Lord,  and  save ; 
Shall  death-sealed  lips  their  silence  break, 

And  praise  Thee  in  the  grave  ? 

My  days  are  w^earied  with  my  sighs, 
My  couch  with  tears  I  drench ; 

The  griefs  that  flood  my  weeping  eyes 
My  wasting  vision  quench. 

But  now,  ye  evil  men,  depart, 
The  Lord  my  plea  doth  hear, 

And  ever,  with  a  pitying  heart, 
Will  lend  a  listening  ear. 


VIII. 

O  Lord,  our  Lord,  how  excellent 
In  all  the  earth  Thy  name  divine ! 

Upon  the  starry  firmament 
The  records  of  Thy  glory  shine. 

To  still  the  rage  of  vengeful  foes 
Thou  makest  infant  weakness  strong; 

When  wrathful  men  Thy  name  oppose, 
The  children's  lips  break  forth  in  song. 

When  I  behold  Thy  lofty  skies — 

The  moon  and  stars  ordained  by  Thee — 

O  what  is  man,  my  spirit  cries, 
That  Thou  of  him  shouldst  thoughtful  be  ? 

Psalms  VI.  and  VIII. 

15 


Lyrics  from  the  Psalter 


For  Thou  didst  make  a  child  of  dust 
But  little  lower  than  his  God; 

And  crown  him  with  this  glorious  trust, 
To  bear  on  earth  Thy  sovereign  rod. 

For  rule  o'er  all  in  field  and  fold, 
In  air  and  sea,  Thou  didst  accord. 

How  excellent  Thy  name  of  old, 
In  all  the  earth,  O  Lord,  our  Lord. 


XI. 

My  trust  is  in  Jehovah  placed; 

How  say  ye  then  to  me — 
''Now  like  a  bird  from  peril  haste, 

And  to  your  mountain  flee?" 

For  lo,  the  wicked  bend  the  bow, 
With  arrow  fixed  for  flight, 

And  stealthy  through  the  darkness  go 
The  pure  in  heart  to  smite. 

Still  doth  my  heart  in  Him  confide 

Who  is  the  Lord  alone; 
He  in  His  temple  doth  abide, 

And  hath  in  heaven  His  throne. 

His  eyes  the  sons  of  men  behold. 
Their  hearts  His  eyelids  try; 

The  righteous,  as  refined  gold, 
From  dross  He'll  purify. 


Psalms  VIII.  and  XL 

i6 


Lyrics  from  the  Psalter 


For  righteous  is  the  God  of  grace, 
And  righteousness   doth   love; 

The  upright  shall  behold  His  face. 
And  dwell  with  Him  above. 


xni. 

How  long,  O  Lord,  this  weary  night? 

Wilt  Thou  forget  me  evermore? 
When  wilt  Thou  to  my  failing  sight 

The  sunshine  of  Thy  face  restore? 

How  long,  'mid  sorrows  day  by  day, 
Shall  all  my  plans  of  comfort  fail? 

How  long  shall  foes  in  proud  array 
Rise  up  against  me  and  prevail? 

O  Lord,  my  God,  regard  my  woes, 
Let  light  upon  mine  eyelids  break; 

Lest  soon  in  sleep  mine  eyes  I  close, 
The  sleep  of  death,  no  more  to  wake. 

Lest  foes  rejoice  when  I  am  moved, 
And  say  "We  have  at  last  prevailed." 

But  I  Thy  mercy  oft  have  proved, 
And  trust  the  love  that  never  failed. 

My  trustful  heart  shall  yet  rejoice. 
When  I  Thy  great  salvation  see ; 

I'll  praise  Thee,  Lord,  with  thankful  voice, 
For  Thou  hast  kindly  dealt  with  me. 

Psalms  XL  and  XIIL 

17 


Lyrics  from  the  Psalter 


XV. 

Who,  O  Lord,  with  Thee  sojourning, 

Shall  in  Zion  be  Thy  guest? 
Who,  a  pilgrim  homeward  turning, 

In  Thy  holy  hill  shall  rest? 
He  that  walketh  in  uprightness, 

Doeth  right  without  a  fear, 
Speaketh  not  in  heartless  lightness, 

But  in  truth  and  love  sincere. 

He  who  slandereth  not  a  brother, 

Doth  no  evil  to  a  friend, 
Never  doth  reproach  another, 

Though  the  wicked  be  condemned. 
He  to  them  all  honor  giveth 

Who  the  Lord  Jehovah  fear ; 
True  to  every  vow  he  liveth, 

Though  he  suffer  loss  severe. 

He  in  kindly  pity  lendeth, 

Asking  no  excess  again ; 
He  the  innocent  befriendeth, 

Seeking  no  reward  of  men. 
He,  thus  doing,  ne'er  is  moved; 

Living  thus,  he  liveth  well : 
This  the  man,  by  Thee  approved, 

Who  within  Thy  house  shall  dwell. 


XVI. 

Preserve  me.  O  God,  for  my  trust  is  in  Thee; 
I've  said  to  Jehovah,  My  Lord  Thou  shalt  be. 

Psalms  XV.  and  XVI. 

i8 


Lyrics  from  the  Psalter 


Beside  Thee  there's  none  that  is  good  in  my  sight ; 
Thy  saints  are  earth's  nobles  in  whom  I  dehght. 

Thou,  Lord,  art  my  portion,  my  cup  of  delight ; 
My  lot  Thou  maintainest,  defendest  my  right. 
In  life's  pleasant  places  my  lines  ever  fall ; 
Yea,  goodly  my  portion,  for  Thou  art  my  all. 

I'll  bless  Thee,  O  Lord,  Who  hast  taught  me  Thy  will ; 
My  heart  shall  instruct  me  in  night  seasons  still. 
I've  set  Thee  before  me.  Thy  faithfulness  proved ; 
With  Thee  at  my  right  hand  I  shall  not  be  moved. 

My  heart  shall  be  glad,  and  my  spirit  rejoice; 
My  flesh  dwell  in  safety  awaiting  Thy  voice. 
Thou  wilt  not  abandon  my  soul  to  death's  gloom ; 
Nor  leave  Thy  beloved  to  waste  in  the  tomb. 

But  life's  brightening  pathway  to  me  Thou  wilt  show ; 
And  fulness  of  joy  in  Thy  presence  bestow; 
And  there,  in  Thy  right  hand,  for  saints  kept  secure, 
Are  pleasures  unmingled  that  ever  endure. 


XVIII. 

VV.    I-IO. 

I  love  the  Lord,  my  joy  and  song, 

My  strength,  my  rock,  my  fortress  strong, 

My  great  deliverer  He. 
My  God,  my  rock,  my  hiding  place, 
My  shield,  and  my  all-conquering  grace. 

My  tower  to  Whom  I  flee. 

Psalms  XVI.  and  XVIII. 

19 


Lyrics  from  the  Psalter 


Now  to  the  Lord  a  song  I'll  raise, 
For  He  is  worthy  of  all  praise 

Who  from  my  foes  will  save. 
Around  me  snares  of  death  were  spread; 
By  floods  of  evil  whelmed  with  dread, 

I  bowed  me  to  the  grave. 

Then  as  my  sorrows  multiplied, 
I  called  upon  the  Lord,  and  cried 

To  God,  my  God,  to  hear. 
From  out  His  temple-courts  on  high 
He  heard  my  supplicating  cry; 

It  came  unto  His  ear. 

Then  shook  the  earth  with  fear  dismayed ; 
The  mountains'  strong  foundations  swayed 

And  trembled  at  His  ire. 
His  wrath  as  rising  smoke  became, 
And  from  His  mouth  devouring  flame 

Enkindled  coals  of  fire. 

The  heavens  bowed,  the  Lord  came  down : 
Thick  darkness,  as  when  tempests  frown, 

Beneath  His  feet  was  spread. 
Upon  a  cherub  swift  He  rode; 
On  clouds  that  hastening  storm  forebode, 

On  wings  of  wind  He  sped. 


w.  11-19. 

He  darkness  His  pavilion  made; 
Dark  waters  and  the  clouds'  thick  shade 
Were  His  august  attire. 

Psalm  XVIII. 

20 


Lyrics  from  the  Psalter 


Then  from  the  blaze  before  Him  cast, 
Down  through  the  gloomy  clouds,  there  passed 
Hailstones  and  coals  of  fire. 

He  thundered  also  through  the  sky; 
It  was  the  voice  of  God  Most  High; 

Hailstones  and  coals  of  fire. 
As  arrows  from  His  dreadful  bow, 
He  shot  forth  lightnings  on  the  foe, 

And  smote  them  in  His  ire. 

Then  were  the  waters'  channels  seen, 
And  earth's  foundation-depths  serene 

Were  open  to  the  day. 
At  His  rebuke  the  earth  was  moved. 
And,  by  His  wrathful  breath  reproved. 

The  waters  fled  away. 

With  hand  reached  out  from  heights  above, 
He  grasped  me,  and  with  tender  love 

From  many  waters  drew. 
He  saved  me  from  the  mighty  foe 
Too  strong  for  me  to  overthrow. 

Their  hate  no  pity  knew. 

They  sought  me  in  my  trouble's  day ; 
But  still  the  Lord,  my  staff  and  stay, 

Upheld  me  by  His  might. 
He  brought  me  to  an  open  place, 
He  saved  me  freely  by  His  grace, 

For  I  was  His  delight. 

Psalm  XVIIL 

21 


Lyrics  from  the  Psalter 


XIX. 

The  heavens  God's  glory  proclaim, 

The  skies  show  His  handiwork  bright, 
The  day  unto  day  speaks  His  name. 

And  night  tells  His  praise  unto  night. 
With  speech  and  with  language  divine. 

No  voice  breaks  their  silence  profound, 
Yet  far  through  the  earth  goes  their  line, 

Their  words  to  the  world's  utmost  bound. 

In  them  is  a  tent  for  the  sun, 

Whence  coming,  in  bridegroom-like  grace, 
He  joyeth  his  pathway  to  run, 

As  runneth  the  strong  in  a  race. 
From  end  unto  end  of  the  sky, 

He  maketh  his  circuit  complete; 
To  none  doth  his  radiance  deny, 

And  nothing  is  hid  from  his  heat. 

How  perfect  the  law  of  the  Lord, 

Restoring  the  soul  when  cast  down ; 
The  witnessing  sure  of  His  word 

With  wisdom  the  simple  doth  crown. 
His  precepts,  all  holy  and  right, 

Give  gladness  to  hearts  filled  with  sighs; 
His  statutes,  as  pure  as  the  light. 

Enlighten  the  dim,  failing  eyes. 

All  clean  is  the  fear  of  the  Lord, 

Outshining,  outlasting  the  sun ; 
The  judgments,  revealed  in  His  word. 

Are  righteous  and  true  every  one. 

Psalm  XIX. 


Lyrics  from  the  Psalter 


Such  treasures,  beyond  all  compare, 
No  gold  well  refined  can  bestow ; 

And  sweeter  than  honey  they  are, 
Than  drops  that  from  honeycomb  flow. 


In  keeping  their  precepts  so  kind, 

Thy  servant  most  blessed  shall  be; 
The  way  of  the  perfect  shall  find. 

And  from  all  transgression  be  free. 
The  words  that  my  lips  breathe  in  speech, 

The  thoughts  that  abide  in  my  heart, 
Accept  Thou,  O  Lord,  I  beseech ; 

My  Rock  and  Redeemer  Thou  art. 


XX. 

The  Lord  ever  hear  thee  when  troubles  are  nigh ; 
The  name  of  our  God  set  thee  safely  on  high. 
The  Lord  send  thee  help  from  His  own  holy  fane, 
And  out  of  His  Zion  thy  weakness  sustain. 

May  He  all  the  gifts  of  thy  love  keep  in  mind, 
And  all  of  thine  offerings  acceptable  find ; 
May  He  ever  grant  thee  the  wish  of  thine  heart, 
Fulfil  all  thy  counsel,  and  wisdom  impart. 

For  victory  vouchsafed  thee  we'll  shout  to  His  praise : 
In  the  name  of  our  God  we  our  banners  will  raise. 
The  Lord  Who  hath  saved  be  thy  confidence  still, 
And  all  thy  petitions  in  mercy  fulfil. 

Psalms  XIX.  and  XX. 

23 


Lyrics  from  the  Psalter 


Now  know  I  in  truth  that  Jehovah  is  nigh, 
To  save  His  anointed  and  answer  his  cry; 
He  will  from  the  heaven  of  His  holiness  send 
The  strength  of  His  right  hand  to  save  and  defend. 

Some  trust  in  their  chariots  prepared  for  the  fray, 
And  some  in  their  horses  the  foe  to  dismay, 
But  we  will  make  mention  of  One  only  Name — 
The  Lord,  our  own  God,  as  our  glory  proclaim. 

Lo,  they  are  bowed  down  and  are  fallen  at  length, 
While  we  have  arisen  and  stand  in  His  strength. 
Save,  Lord  !  and  let  Him  Who  is  King  over  all 
Give  answers  of  peace  in  the  day  when  we  call ! 


xxn. 

W.    I-II. 

Why  hast  Thou  me  forsaken, 

O  God,  my  God  for  aye  ? 
Why  from  me,  help  entreating, 

Art  Thou  so  far  away? 
Though  all  day  long  my  crying 

Doth  rise,  my  God,  to  Thee, 
And  night  doth  bring  no  silence, 

Thou  dost  not  answer  me. 

But  Thou  art  ever  holy, 
O  Thou  Who  dwellest  still 

Amid  Thy  people's  praises, 
On  Zion's  holy  hill. 

Psalms  XX.  and  XXII . 

24 


Lyrics  from  the  Psalter 


In  Thee  our  fathers  trusted, 
They  trusted  in  Thy  name ; 

They  cried  and  were  delivered, 
And  ne'er  were  put  to  shame. 

No  man  am  I  accounted — 

A  worm,  despised,  forlorn: 
All  they  that  see  me  mock  me 

And  laugh  at  me  in  scorn. 
"He  trusted  in  Jehovah" — 

They  say  with  taunt  and  sneer ; 
"If  He  in  him  delighteth 

Now  let  His  help  appear." 

But  Thou  art  He  Who  laid  me 

Upon  my  mother's  breast, 
And  taught  me  how  to  trust  Thee, 

Within  Thine  arms  at  rest. 
But  near  me  now  is  trouble; 

Be  Thou  not  far  from  me; 
For  there  is  not  another 

Who  can  my  helper  be. 

w.  22-31. 

And  now  to  all  my  brethren 

I  will  declare  Thy  name; 
Amid  the  congregation 

Thy  praise  I  will  proclaim. 
Who  fear  Jehovah,  praise  Him! 

Ye  chosen  seed  draw  near! 
All  Israel  glorify  Him, 

While  yet  ye  stand  in  fear ! 

Psalm  XXII. 

25 


Lyrics  from  the  Psalter 


The  affliction  of  the  afflicted 

Thou  never  didst  deride; 
Nor  long  Thy  face  hide  from  him ; 

But  heardst  him  when  he  cried. 
And  thus  from  Thee  there  cometh 

The  praise  I  bring  Thee  now 
Among  the  congregation, 

Where  I  will  pay  my  vow. 


Well  satisfied,  the  humble 

Shall  eat  what  Thou  dost  give ; 
Who  seek  the  Lord  shall  praise  Him ; 

Their  heart  forever  live ! 
All  earth  shall  yet  remember 

And  to  Jehovah  turn  ; 
All  kindreds  of  the  nations 

No  more  Thy  worship  spurn. 

For  Thine,  O  Lord,  the  kingdom; 

The  nation's  ruler  Thou ; 
Earth's  prospered  ones  and  mighty 

Shall  eat  and  humbly  bow. 
Yea,  all  shall  bow  before  Thee, 

Though  soon  in  death  they  sleep; 
E'en  he  whose  fainting  spirit 

Alive  he  cannot  keep. 


A  seed  shall  ever  serve  Thee; 

And  ever  shall  be  told 
To  coming  generations 

Jehovah's  works  of  old. 

Psalm  XXII. 

26 


Lyrics  from  the  Psalter 


And  they  in  turn  to  others 
His  righteousness  shall  tell, 

And  say  to  unborn  peoples- 
He  doeth  all  things  well. 


xxni. 

The  Lord's  my  Shepherd  ever  blest; 

And  surely  I  no  want  shall  know. 
In  pastures  green  He  makes  me  rest, 

He  leads  me  where  still  waters  flow. 

His  grace  restores  with  succor  meet 
My  soul  when  faint  and  comfortless; 

He  for  His  name's  sake  guides  my  feet 
In  paths  of  peace  and  righteousness. 

Yea,  though  I  walk  through  death's  dark  vale, 

No  fear  of  evil  shall  there  be ; 
For  Thou  art  with  me ;  nor  can  fail 

Thy  rod  and  staff  to  comfort  me. 

For  me  Thou  hast  a  table  spread 

Before  the  presence  of  my  foes ; 
With  oil  Thou  dost  anoint  my  head; 

My  cup  of  blessing  overflows. 

O  surely  only  grace  and  love 

Shall  follow  me  till  life  is  o'er; 
Then  in  Jehovah's  house  above 

I'll  happy  dwell  forevermore. 

Psalms  XXII.  and  XXIII. 

27 


Lyrics  from  the  Psalter 


XXIII. 

Thou,  Jehovah,  art  my  Shepherd, 
Therefore  I  no  want  shall  know ; 

In  green  pastures  Thou  dost  rest  me, 
Leadest  where  still  waters  flow. 

Thou,  O  Shepherd, 
Sweet  refreshment  dost  bestow. 


For  Thy  name's  sake.  Thou  dost  guide  me 
In  the  paths  of  righteousness. 

Though  I  walk  the  vale  of  shadows, 
Fears  no  more  my  soul  oppress : 

Thou  art  with  me, 
With  Thy  rod  and  staff  to  bless. 


Thou  preparest  me  a  table 
In  the  presence  of  the  foe. 

Thou  my  head  with  oil  anointest, 
Yea,  my  cup  doth  overflow. 

O  my  Shepherd, 
Having  Thee,  no  want  I  know. 


Surely  grace  and  lovingkindness 

Shall  forever  follow  me ; 
Till,  the  days  of  life  all  ended, 

Evermore  my  home  shall  be, 
O  Jehovah, 

In  Thy  holy  house  with  Thee. 

Psalm  XXIII. 

28 


Lyrics  from  the  Psalter 


XXIV. 

The  earth,  O  Lord,  is  all  Thine  own; 
The  teeming  world  is  Thine  alone, 

And  all  its  people  Thine. 
For,  founded  on  the  obedient  sea, 
Established  on  the  floods  by  Thee, 

Thou  didst  its  bounds  assign. 

Who  shall  ascend  Thy  hill  of  grace? 
And  who,  within  Thy  holy  place, 

Shall  stand  in  joy  complete? 
The  man  whose  heart  and  hands  are  pure, 
Who  can  no  vanity  endure, 

Nor  sweareth  for  deceit. 

He  shall  receive  Thy  blessing,  Lord, 
And  righteousness  Thou  wilt  accord, 

The  gift  of  Thine  own  grace. 
This  is  the  generation  blest 
That  ask  for  Zion's  God  confessed, 

And  seek  Thy  favoring  face. 

Lift  up  your  heads,  ye  heavenly  gates! 
For  lo!  the  King  of  Glory  waits 

His  high  reward  to  win. 
Ye  stately  portals,  wide  unfold 
Your  everlasting  doors  of  gold, 

And  let  the  King  come  in ! 

And  do  ye  ask — ye  watchmen  true, — 
"Who  is  this  King  of  Glory,  who? 
And  what  His  right  to  reign?" 

Psalm  XXIV. 

29 


Lyrics  from  the  Psalter 


The  Lord,  victorious  by  His  might; 

The  Lord,  Who  won  His  regal  right 

By  shameful  cross  and  pain. 

Lift  up  your  heads,  ye  gates  of  day ! 
And  you,  ye  ancient  doors,  give  way, 

The  glorious  King  is  near ! 
The  angels  are  His  escort  bright, 
And  in  His  train  the  saints  in  white 

As  countless  stars  appear. 

And  ask  ye  still — ye  watchmen  true, — 
"Who  is  this  King  of  Glory,  who? 

Whom  saints  and  angels  sing?" 
The  Lord,  the  God  of  Hosts,  His  name- 
The  sinner's  Friend  of  matchless  fame- 
He  is  the  glorious  King. 


xxvn. 

PART    I, 
VV.   1-6. 

The  Lord  is  the  light  of  my  life. 

And  He  my  salvation  is  made ; 
My  stronghold  from  trouble  and  strife; 

Of  whom  then  shall  I  be  afraid? 

When  hungering  as  beasts  for  their  prey 
My  foes  my  destruction  have  sought, 

They  stumbled  and  fell  in  the  way; 
The  Lord  brought  their  counsel  to  nought. 

Psalms  XXIV.  and  XXVII. 

30 


Lyrics  from  the  Psalter 


Though  hosts  should  encamp  round  my  path, 
Still  fearless  my  heart  shall  abide; 

Though  war  rise  against  me  in  wrath, 
I  yet  in  the  Lord  will  confide. 

One  thing  I  have  asked  of  the  Lord, 
And  that  will  I  humbly  implore — 

That  He  will  my  portion  accord, 
To  dwell  in  His  house  evermore. 

That  L  in  His  temple  of  grace, 
The  Lord  in  His  beauty  may  see; 

May  gaze  with  delight  on  His  face, 
And  muse  on  His  mercy  to  me. 

For  in  His  pavilion  of  peace. 

He'll  hide  me  from  trouble's  rude  shock; 
Will  shield  me  when  perils  increase, 

And  set  me  secure  on  a  rock. 

Set  high  o'er  my  foes  all  around, 

With  joy  will  I  sacrifice  bring, 
With  harp  and  with  trumpet's  glad  sound 

Jehovah's  high  praises  will  sing. 

PART  II. 

vv.  7-14. 
O  hear  Thou  the  voice  of  my  cry. 

Deal  kindly  and  answer  in  grace ; 
My  heart  to  Thy  call  makes  reply — 

'T  will,  O  my  Lord,  seek  Thy  face." 
But  hide  not  that  face  from  my  tears, 

Nor  put  me  in  anger  away; 
Thou  hast  been  my  help  in  past  years, 

Nor  leave  nor  forsake  me,  I  pray! 

Psalm  XXVL 

31 


Lyrics  from  the  Psalter 


When  father  and  mother  forsake, 
And  all  earthly  comforts  depart, 

Then  Thou,  Lord,  wilt  tenderly  take 
Thy  child  to  Thy  pitiful  heart. 

0  teach  me  Thine  own  perfect  way. 

And  lead  me  in  paths  plain  and  straight; 
For,  watchful  as  beasts  for  their  prey, 
My  foes  for  my  soul  lie  in  wait. 

1  surely  had  fainted  with  fear 
Except  I  had  trusted  in  Thee; 

Expecting  Thy  goodness  e'en  here 
In  the  land  of  the  living  to  see. 

Then  wait,  O  my  soul,  for  the  Lord  ! 
Be  strong  and  be  brave  in  His  might ! 

Yea,  patiently  wait  for  the  Lord, 
The  Lord,  thy  Salvation  and  Light. 


XXIX. 

O  give  ye  glory  to  the  Lord, 

Ye  sons  of  God  His  praise  proclaim ! 

Honor  and  might  to  Him  accord. 
Give  Him  the  glory  due  His  name, 

And  worship  Him  in  beauteous  dress — 

The  spotless  robes  of  holiness. 

Jehovah's  voice  is  on  the  deep, 
The  God  of  glory  thunders  loud; 

His  voice  is  heard  when  waters  sweep 
In  torrents  from  the  riven  cloud. 

Jehovah's  voice,  in  depth  and  height. 

Is  full  of  majesty  and  might. 

Psalms  XXVII.  and  XXIX. 

32 


Lyrics  from  the  Psalter 


Jehovah's  voice  the  cedars  breaks. 

It  breaks  the  pride  of  Lebanon's  steeps ; 

The  listening  mountain  hears  and  quakes, 
And  Hermon  in  its  terror  leaps. 

His  voice  hews  out  the  lightning  flash 

That  cleaves  the  sky  with  tempest  crash. 

Jehovah's  voice  the  wild  woods  hear, 
And  tremble  in  their  depths  concealed; 

The  forests  stripped  and  bare  appear, 
With  all  their  dark  retreats  revealed. 

But  in  His  temple  with  acclaim, 

They  all  say — Glory  to  His  name ! 

Jehovah  sat,  a  kingly  form, 

Upon  the  Flood's  all-whelming  wave; 
And  still  He  sits,  on  flood  and  storm, 

Our  King,  forever  strong  to  save. 
His  people's  strength  He  will  increase; 
The  Lord  will  bless  them  with  His  peace. 


XXX. 

PART  I. 

I'll  praise  the  Lord  with  gladsome  voice, 
Who  raised  me  from  the  grave, 

And  hath  not  let  my  foes  rejoice 
That  none  were  near  to  save. 

O  Lord,  my  God,  I  cried  to  Thee, 
And  Thou   didst  healing  give; 

Thou  from  the  depths  hast  lifted  me, 
Restored  and  bid  me  live. 


Psalms  XXIX.  and  XXX. 

33 


Lyrics  from  the  Psalter 


O  ye  beloved  of  the  Lord, 
With  music  sound  His  fame; 

Awake  the  harp's  most  tuneful  chord 
To  praise  His  Holy  Name. 

He  hath  for  wrath  a  moment  brief, 

For  favor  all  life  long; 
With  evening  cometh  transient  grief, 

With  morning  joyful  song. 


PART  II. 

I  never  shall  be  moved,  I  said — 

Secure  in  earthly  good; 
Thy  face  was  hid;  my  comfort  fled; 

Through  Thee  my  mountain  stood. 

Then  'mid  my  trouble's  rising  flood. 
To  Thee  arose  my  prayer — 

What  profit  were  there  in  my  blood? 
Shall  dust  Thy  praise  declare? 

For  Thine  own  glory's  sake,  O  Lord, 

My  supplication  hear; 
Thine  answering  mercy  now  accord, 

My  Helper  still  appear. 

Yea,  hast  Thou,  Lord,  for  my  relief. 

Turned  sad  to  joyful  days; 
Put  off  the  sackcloth  of  my  grief, 

And  girded  me  with  praise. 

Psalm  XXX. 

34 


Lyrics  from  the  Psalter 


Now  shall  my  glory  silence  break, 
And  Thee,  O  Lord,  adore; 

Yea,  all  my  powers  to  song  awake, 
And  praise  Thee  evermore. 


XXXII. 

vv.  1-7. 

How  blessed  of  the  Lord  is  he 

Who  no  more  bears  transgression's  load; 
Whose  sins  are  hid  beneath  the  sea, — 

The  sea  whose  streams  from  Christ  have  flowed. 

Yea,  blessed  he,  and  he  alone. 
To  whom  the  Lord  imputes  no  sin ; 

Within  whose  heart  no  guile  is  known. 
For  grace  has  made  him  pure  within. 

While  I  my  lips  in  silence  sealed, 
Nor  would  for  Thy  forgiveness  pray. 

My  waning  strength  the  grief  revealed 
That  filled  with  moaning  all  the  day. 

For  O,  so  heavy,  day  and  night. 
Thy  chastening  hand  upon  me  laid. 

That  all  my  fountains  of  delight 
Were  as  the  drought  of  summer  made. 

But  when  my  lips  my  sin  confessed, 

And  all  my  guilt  to  Thee  I  told, 
I  was  that  happy  man  so  blest, 

Whose  burden  from  his  heart  is  rolled. 

Psalms  XXX.  and  XXXII. 

35 


Lyrics  from  the  Psalter 


For  this,  while  yet  Thou  mayst  be  found, 
Let  all  the  godly  humbly  pray. 

Great  waters  may  their  soul  surround. 
But  cannot  sweep  their  hope  away. 

O  Lord,  Who  art  my  hiding  place, 
Thou  wilt  my  sure  protector  be. 

And  through  Thine  all-delivering  grace 
With  songs  Thou  wilt  encompass  me. 


XXXIIL 


Rejoice  in  the  Lord!  ye  righteous,  rejoice! 
His  praises  record  with  jubilant  voice. 
O  banish  all  sadness  and  cease  your  complaints, 
For  garments  of  gladness  are  comely  for  saints. 

Give  thanks  to  the  Lord  !  His  praise  loudly  sing 
With  harp's  sweetest  chord  and  lute's  tuneful  string. 
Your  skill  gladly  bringing  a  new  song  prepare ; 
With  trumpet-toned  singing  His  goodness  declare. 

His  word  ever  stands  most  upright  and  sure ; 
The  works  of  His  hands  are  faithful  and  pure. 
He  righteousness  loveth  and  sin  will  destroy; 
His  kindness  He  proveth  in  earth's  ample  joy. 

The  word  of  His  might  spread  forth  the  blue  sky ; 
He  breathed  through  the  night,  and  stars  shone  on  high. 
The  seas  in  commotion  He  gathered  in  heaps. 
In  treasuries  of  ocean  He  storeth  the  deeps. 

Psalms  XXXII.  and  XXXIIL 

36 


Lyrics  from  the  Psalter 


Let  all  the  earth  fear  Jehovah  alone, 
Let  nations  revere  and  bow  at  His  throne. 
For  He  but  commandeth,  and  lo,  it  is  done; 
He  saith,  and  it  standeth  more  sure  than  the  sun. 

The  counsels  of  foes  He  bringeth  to  nought. 
And  none  can  oppose  His  heart's  secret  thought : 
They're  blest  beyond  measure  who  in  Him  rejoice, 
For  they  are  His  treasure,  the  lot  of  His  choice. 


XXXIV. 
vv.   I-IO. 

I'll  bless  the  Lord,  whate'er  betide, 
And  ever  praise  Him  with  my  voice; 

My  soul  shall  boast  in  none  beside. 
The  meek  shall  hear  it  and  rejoice. 

0  magnify  the  Lord  with  me. 
And  let  His  name  exalted  be ! 

1  sought  the  Lord,  He  answered  soon. 
And  all  my  gloomy  fears  were  gone. 

They  looked  to  Him,  and  bright  as  noon 
Their  unveiled  face  with  glory  shone. 
This  poor  man  cried,  the  Lord  gave  ear 
And  saved  him  from  distress  and  fear. 

Around  all  them  that  fear  the  Lord 
Encamps  His  angel  day  and  night, 

Keeping  his  faithful  watch  and  ward, 
And  saving  them  when  fears  affright. 

That  He  is  good,  O  taste  and  see ; 

Trust  Him,  and  blessed  shalt  thou  be. 

Psalms  XXXIII.  and  XXXIV. 

37 


Lyrics  from  the  Psalter 


O  fear  the  Lord,  all  ye  His  saints — 

No  want  shall  they  who  fear  Him  know. 

Young  lions'  strength  within  them  faints, 
And  hungry  through  the  woods  they  go : 

But  they  shall  want  no  good  thing  here, 

Who  seek  the  Lord  with  hearts  sincere. 


XXXVI. 

VV.   5-12. 

Thy  mercy.  Lord,  the  heaven  fills, 
Thy  truth  extends  above  the  sky ; 

Thy  righteousness  is  like  the  hills, 
The  mighty  hills  of  God  Most  High; 

Thy  judgments  are  a  boundless  sea; 

All  living  things  depend  on  Thee. 


O  God,  how  precious  is  the  grace 
That  unto  men  this  blessing  brings, 

That  they  should  find  a  hiding  place 
Within  the  shadow  of  Thy  wings. 

With  goodness  from  Thy  house  supplied, 

They  shall  be  fully  satisfied. 


For  drink,  Thy  pleasures  Thou  wilt  give, 
A  flowing  river,  pure  and  bright. 

O  Fount  of  Life,  in  Thee  we  live, 
And  in  Thy  light  shall  we  see  light. 

Let  not  Thy  grace  and  truth  depart 

From  men  of  pure  and  upright  heart. 

Psalms  XXXIV.  and  XXXVI. 

38 


Lyrics  front  the  Psalter 


Let  not  the  trampling  foot  of  pride 
Against  me  ever  come,  I  pray ; 

Nor  let  me  from  Thy  sheltering  side 
By  wicked  hands  be  driven  away. 

There  are  they  fallen  who  ill  devise, 

By  Thee  cast  down,  no  more  to  rise. 


XXXVII. 

PART  I. 

Fret  not  thyself,  nor  envious  be 
Of  those  that  work  iniquity 

And  prosper  in  their  way ; 
For  like  the  grass  they  perish  soon, 
And  like  the  herb  cut  down  at  noon, 

They  wither  in  a  day. 


Trust  in  the  Lord  and  still  do  well ; 
Within  the  land  securely  dwell; 

Feed  on  His  faithfulness. 
Delight  thee  also  in  the  Lord, 
And  to  thy  heart  He  will  accord 

The  good  it  would  possess. 


Yea,  to  the  Lord  thy  way  commit; 
Confide  in  Him  Who  still  doth  sit 

Enthroned  in  power  divine; 
For  He  thy  righteousness  shall  make 
As  light  amid  the  darkness  break. 

Thy  right  as  noonday  shine. 

Psalms  XXXVI.  and  XXXVII. 

39 


Lyrics  from  the  Psalter 


Rest  in  the  Lord  and  be  thou  still ; 
With  patience  wait  His  holy  will, 

Enduring  to  the  end. 
Fret  not  though  sinners'  gains  increase: 
Forsake  thy  wrath ;  from  anger  cease ; 

It  doth  to  evil  tend. 

PART  II. 

A  little  that  the  righteous  hath 
Is  better  than  the  ample  wealth 

Of  many  wicked  men. 
Destroyed  shall  be  their  arms  of  pride; 
But  saints,  who  in  the  Lord  confide, 

Shall  be  upholden  then. 

He  knows  the  days  the  perfect  live, 
And  an  inheritance  will  give 

Which  ever  shall  abide. 
In  evil  times  no  shame  they  know, 
And  in  the  days  of  famine's  woe 

They  shall  be  satisfied. 

Although  the  wicked  prospered  seem. 
At  last  they  vanish  like  a  dream, 

And  perish  in  a  day. 
Jehovah's  foes  shall  soon  appear 
Like  fields  once  fair,  now  brown  and  sear; 

Like  smoke  they  pass  away. 

The  good  man's  steps  are  led  aright ; 
The  Lord  doth  in  his  way  delight : 
Established  it  shall  stand. 

Psalm  XXXVII. 

40 


Lyrics  from  the  Psalter 


He  shall  not  perish  though  he  fall : 
The  Lord  Who  ruleth  over  all 
Upholdeth  with  His  hand. 

Though  I  am  old  who  young  have  been, 
No  saint  have  I  forsaken  seen, 

Nor  yet  his  child  in  need. 
All  day  he  dealeth  graciously; 
He  lendeth  in  his  charity; 

And  blessed  is  his  seed. 

PART   III. 

Wait  on  Jehovah ;  keep  His  way. 
And  He'll  exalt  thee,  nor  delay 

To  give  the  land  to  thee. 
And  when  His  judgment  shall  cut  off 
The  wicked  who  against  thee  scoff. 

Thou  shalt  the  judgment  see. 

The  wicked  in  great  power  I've  seen, 
Like  some  hale  tree  with  foliage  green 

That  grows  in  native  ground. 
But  one  passed  by ;  it  was  no  more ; 
I  sought  the  man  so  strong  of  yore, 

But  he  could  not  be  found. 

But  mark  the  upright  day  by  day; 
Behold  the  perfect  in  his  way; 

His  latter  end  is  peace. 
Destroyed  at  once  shall  rebels  be; 
Cut  off  from  all  posterity, 

Their  very  name  shall  cease. 

Psalm  XXXVII. 

41 


Lyrics  from  the  Psalter 


Salvation's  from  the  Lord  alone, 

Whom  as  their  covert  saints  have  known 

When  by  sore  trouble  tried. 
The  Lord  Who  helped  and  saved  them  then 
Will  save  them  still  from  wicked  men, 

For  they  in  Him  confide. 


XXXIX. 

vv.  4-13. 

Make  me,  O  Lord,  mine  end  to  learn, 
And  what  the  measure  of  my  days; 

How  frail  I  am,  I  would  discern, 
And  then  "take  heed  unto  my  ways." 

My  days  are  but  a  hand-breadth  long; 

My  life-time  nothing  to  Thine  eye; 
Yea,  every  man,  however  strong. 

Is  but  a  breath,  a  passing  sigh. 

He  walketh  in  an  empty  show, 

And  is  disquieted  in  vain; 
He  hoardeth  up.  but  doth  not  know 

What  hand  shall  reap  his  toil  and  pain. 

And  now,  what  wait  I  for  but  Thee? 

In  Thee  I  all  my  hopes  repose ; 
From  all  transgression  set  me  free, 

Nor  let  me  be  reproached  by  foes. 

My  tongue  is  dumb,  my  lips  are  hushed, 
For  Thou  hast  done  it,  O  my  God ; 

Remove  Thy  stroke  lest  I  be  crushed. 
For  I'm  consumed  beneath  Thy  rod. 

Psalms  XXXVII.  and  XXXIX. 

42 


Lyrics  from  the  Psalter 


When  Thou  with  sinful  man  art  wroth. 
And  dost  Thy  chastening  power  display, 

Consumed  as  by  the  fretting  moth, 
His  beauty  wasteth  fast  away. 

Give  ear,  O  Lord,  hear  Thou  my  cry, 
Nor  silent  see  the  frequent  tear ; 

As  were  my  fathers,  so  am  I, 
A  pilgrim  and  a  stranger  here. 

Thy  wrathful  look  avert  at  length, 
And  spare  me  as  in  days  of  yore, 

That  I  may  yet  recover  strength 
Ere  I  go  hence,  and  be  no  more. 


XL. 

vv.  1-6. 

I  waited,  waited  for  the  Lord, 
And  He  to  me  His  ear  inclined; 

He  heard  my  cry  from  depths  abhorred, 
Wherein  my  fainting  spirit  pined. 

He  drew  me  with  a  mighty  hand 

Out  of  the  pit  of  miry  clay; 
Upon  a  rock  He  made  me  stand, 

And  rendered  firm  and  sure  my  way. 

Then  to  my  lips,  for  mercies  new, 
A  glad  new  song  of  praise  He  gave; 

Many  with  fear  His  work  shall  view. 
And  trust  in  Him  so  strong  to  save. 

Psalms  XXXIX.  and  XL. 

43 


Lyrics  from  the  Psalter 


How  blest  the  man  whose  trust  Thou  art, 
Who  maketh  Thee,  O  Lord,  his  staj^ ; 

Regarding  not  the  proud  of  heart, 
Nor  such  as  falsely  turn  away. 

Thy  works  and  thoughts  toward  us,  O  Lord, 

Are  wonderful  and  manifold ; 
Who  can  their  wondrous  grace  record. 

By  whom  their  number  e'er  be  told? 

No  sacrifice  dost  Thou  desire. 
No  offerings  that  in  smoke  arise ; 

Love  is  Thine  altar's  holy  fire. 
Obedient  hearts  Thy  sacrifice. 


vv.  11-17. 

Thy  tender  mercies,  O  my  Lord, 

Do  not  in  wrath  from  me  withhold; 

But  still  Thy  grace  and  truth  accord 
To  guard  me  as  in  days  of  old. 

For  ills  unnumbered  gather  fast. 
And  countless  sins  against  me  rise, 

So  that  my  eyes  are  downward  cast, 
And  all  my  heart  within  me  dies. 

Be  pleased,  O  Lord,  to  rescue  me, 
Thy  gracious  help  do  not  delay. 

Let  them  with  shame  confounded  be 
Who  seek  to  take  my  life  away. 

Psalm  XL. 

44 


Lyrics  from  the  Psalter 


Turned  back  and  shamed  be  they,  O  Lord, 
Who  in  my  trouble  take  delight ; 

Appalled  be  they  at  shame's  reward. 
Who  taunt  Thy  servant  day  and  night. 

Let  all  rejoice  who  seek  Thy  face, 

And  ever  glad  in  Thee  abide; 
Let  those  that  love  Thy  saving  grace 

E'er  say — The  Lord  be  magnified. 

But  I  am  poor  and  needy  now. 

Make  haste  to  me,  O  God,  I  pray; 
My  help  and  my  deliverer,  Thou; 

Let  not  Thy  footsteps  long  delay. 


XLL 

vv.  1-3. 

How  blest  is  he  that  taketh  thought 

The  needy  to  befriend; 
To  him,  in  days  with  evil  fraught, 

The  Lord  will  help  extend. 

The  Lord  will  guard  and  let  him  live, 

Will  bless  him  in  the  land; 
And  never  to  his  foes  will  give 

His  life  within  their  hand. 

Upon  the  couch  of  languishing 

The  Lord  will  still  sustain ; 
And  by  the  comforts  He  will  bring, 

Transform  his  bed  of  pain. 

Psalms  XL.  and  XLL 

45 


Lyrics  from  tlve  Psalter 


XLII. 
vv.  1-6. 

As  the  hart,  when  noonday  burns. 

Pants  for  springs  whence  waters  burst, 
So  for  God  my  spirit  yearns, 

For  the  living  God  athirst. 
In  Thy  courts,  where  oft  I've  stood, 

When  shall  I  again  appear? 
Tears  are  day  and  night  my  food, 

While  the  scoffer's  taunt  I  hear. 

If  my  sorrow  seek  relief 

In  the  scenes  of  happier  years, 
They  but  stir  anew  my  grief — 

Open  every  fount  of  tears. 
For  how  oft  I  led  the  throng 

Who  to  Zion  sought  their  way, 
Where  with  voice  of  praise  and  song 

Glad  we  kept  Thy  holy  day. 

Why  art  thou,  my  soul,  cast  down? 

Why  so  troubled  and  dismayed? 
Hope  in  God ;  fear  not  His  frown ; 

I  shall  praise  Him  for  His  aid. 
Though  my  heart  within  me  sighs — 

Still  cast  down  in  deep  distress, 
Unto  God  my  spirit  flies 

From  a  dreary  wilderness. 

vv.  7-1 1. 

Deep  still  calleth  unto  deep, 
As  when  seas  tumultuous  roll ; 

Psalm  XLII. 

46 


Lyrics  from  the  Psalter 


All  Thy  waves  and  billows  sweep 
O'er  my  helpless,  sinking  soul. 

Yet  the  Lord  will  make  my  days 
With  His  loving-kindness  bright; 

And  His  sweetest  song  of  praise 
Shall  be  with  me  in  the  night. 

Shouldst  Thou  still  withhold  Thy  face 

From  my  longing,  weeping  eyes. 
Yet,  O  God  of  life  and  grace, 

Unto  Thee  my  prayer  shall  rise. 
O  my  refuge  and  my  rock, 

Why  hast  Thou  forgotten  me? 
Why  should  foes  my  mourning  mock, 

Pierce  my  soul  with  scoffs  at  Thee. 

Why  art  thou,  my  soul,  cast  down  ? 

Why  disquieted  so  long? 
Hope  in  God,  Who  yet  will  crown 

Happy  days  with  joyful  song. 
Yea,  I  yet  shall  praise  His  grace, 

Who,  though  now  I  feel  His  rod, 
Is  the  health  that  cheers  my  face, 

My  Redeemer  and  my  God. 


XLV. 

PART   I. — THE   KING. 

My  heart,  as  some  o'erflowing  spring. 
Pours  forth  its  tribute  to  the  King. 
I  have  a  goodly  theme. 


Psalms  XLII.  and  XLV. 

47 


Lyrics  from  the  Psalter 


My  tongue,  a  ready  writer's  pen, 
Makes  haste  to  sing  of  Thee  again, 
O  King  of  kings  supreme. 


For  Thou  art  fair,  supremely  fair. 
No  sons  of  men  with  Thee  compare, 

In  every  loveliness. 
Such  grace  upon  Thy  lips  is  poured. 
That  God,  by  heaven  and  earth  adored, 

Doth  Thee  forever  bless. 


Gird  on  Thy  sword,  O  Mighty  One ; 
Majestic,  glorious  as  the  sun. 

And  on  to  victory  ride. 
Ride  forth  for  truth  and  humble  right. 
And  let  the  right  hand  of  Thy  might 

To  deeds  of  valor  guide. 

The  arrows  of  Thy  wrath  are  keen ; 
The  peoples,  who  Thy  foes  have  been, 

Pierced  to  the  heart  shall  fall. 
Forever  is  Thy  throne,  O  God ; 
And  equity  Thy  Kingdom's  rod 

That  ruleth  over  all. 


Thou  lovest  righteousness,  O  King, 
But  hatest  every  evil  thing, 

And  wilt  at  last  destroy. 
And  therefore,  over  all  to  be 
Hath  God,  Thy  God,  anointed  Thee 

With  oil  of  holy  joy. 

Psalm  XLV. 

48 


Lyrics  from  the  Psalter 


Thy  robes  of  sweet  perfume  are  made ; 
And  from  Thy  palace,  ivory-laid, 

The  harp-strings  make  Thee  glad. 
King's  daughters  as  Thy  maids  are  seen, 
And  on  Thy  right  doth  stand  the  queen, 

In  gold  of  Ophir  clad. 

PART  II. — THE  BRIDE. 

O  daughter  hear,  incline  thine  ear; 
Forget  thy  home  and  kindred  dear, 

Nor  let  thy  heart  delay. 
So  shall  the  King  thy  beauty  own ; 
He  is  thy  lord,  and  He  alone; 

To  Him  thy  homage  pay. 

Tyre's  daughters  shall  with  gifts  be  there; 
The  rich  shall  seek  thy  grace  to  share, 

And  of  their  treasures  bring. 
All  glorious  art  thou,  chosen  queen, 
In  robes  inwove  with  golden  sheen. 

Prepared  to  meet  the  King. 

On  broidered  work  before  thee  spread, 
Mid  songs  of  joy  thou  shalt  be  led, 

With  virgins  in  thy  train, 
Until  the  bridal  hymn  they  sing 
Within  the  palace  of  the  King, 

Who  over  all  doth  reign. 

Where  stood  the  fathers,  there  shall  stand 
Thy  sons,  whom  thou,  o'er  every  land, 
Shalt  princes  make,  O  King! 

Psalm  XLV. 

49 


Lyrics  from  the  Psalter 


I'll  make  Thy  name  to  endless  days 

To  be  remembered ;  and  Thy  praise 

Shall  nations  ever  sing. 


XLVI. 

God  is  our  refuge  on  our  side; 

Our  fortress  strong,  in  trouble  tried; 

Our  very  present  aid. 
Though  earth  convulsed  and  changed  should  be, 
The  mountains  sink  in  depths  of  sea, 

We  will  not  be  dismayed. 

Yea,  though  the  waters  tumult  make, 
And  mountains  with  their  swelling  shake, 

Yet  this  our  song  shall  be — 
The  Lord  of  Hosts  is  on  our  side, 
In  Israel's  God  we  will  confide, 

Our  strong,  high  tower  is  He. 

A  river  flows  whose  streams  of  grace 
Make  glad  God's  holy  dwelling  place, 

The  city  of  the  King. 
With  God  in  her  she  stands  unmoved. 
And  He  His  help  for  Zion  loved 

At  early  dawn  will  bring. 

The  nations  rage,  the  kingdoms  quake, 
And  if  His  lips  their  silence  break, 

The  earth  dissolved  shall  be. 
The  Lord  of  Hosts  is  on  our  side. 
In  Israel's  God  we  will  confide, 

Our  strong,  high  tower  is  He. 

Psalms  XLV.  and  XLVI. 

50 


Lyrics  from  the  Psalter 


Come,  see  the  judgments  of  the  Lord, 
When  with  His  desolating  sword 

He  smites  the  earth  in  ire; 
And  then  great  peace  on  earth  He  makes, 
The  bow  and  spear  asunder  breaks, 

The  chariots  burns  in  fire. 

Be  still,  vain  man,  before  His  rod ! 
Be  still  and  know  that  He  is  God, 

And  will  exalted  be. 
The  Lord  of  Hosts  is  on  our  side. 
In  Israel's  God  we  will  confide. 

Our  strong,  high  tower  is  He. 


XLVII. 

O  all  ye  peoples,  clap  your  hands, 

To  God  your  shouts  of  triumph  raise ; 
In  awful  majesty  He  stands, 
The  Lord  Most  High,  to  endless  days. 
Let  all  the  earth  its  tribute  bring 
To  Him  the  great  and  only  King. 

He  shall  subdue  beneath  our  feet 

The  nations  that  His  grace  refuse ; 
But  ours  shall  be  a  portion  meet, 
Which  He  Himself  for  us  shall  choose. 
The  pride  of  Jacob  whom  He  loved. 
Shall  be  our  heritage  approved. 

With  shouts  of  joy,  with  trumpet's  voice, 

Is  God  gone  up  above  the  sky. 
Sing  praise  to  God,  in  Him  rejoice; 

Psalms  XL  VL  and  XL  VIL 

51 


Lyrics  from  the  Psalter 


Sing  praises  to  our  King  on  high, 
For  God  o'er  all  the  earth  is  King; 
With  skilful  song  His  praises  sing. 

Our  God  doth  o'er  the  nations  reign ; 

He  sitteth  on  His  holy  throne; 
Earth's  princes  come,  a  captive  train, 
To  be  His  people,  His  alone. 

The  shields  of  earth  to  God  belong; 
Exalt  Him  greatly  in  your  song. 


XLVni. 

The  Lord  is  very  great; 

His  worthy  praise  confess 
Within  the  city  of  our  God — 

His  mount  of  holiness. 

How  beautiful  appears 

Mount  Zion's  lofty  height! 
The  city  of  the  King  Supreme, 

And  all  the  earth's  delight. 

God  in  her  palaces 

Is  for  a  refuge  known; 
The  kings  drew  near,  they  saw,  they  fled, 

As  ships  by  tempests  blown. 

Thus  have  our  eyes  beheld 

What  oft  we  heard  before, 
That  God,  Who  in  His  Zion  dwells, 

Will  keep  her  evermore. 


Psalms  XLVII.  and  XLVIIl. 

52 


Lvrics  from  the  Psalter 


Within  Thy  house,  O  God, 
How  often  have  we  thought 

Of  all  Thy  mercy  to  us  shown, 
And  what  Thy  hand  hath  wrought 


Far  as  Thy  name  is  known, 
So  far  Thy  praise  extends; 

Thy  righteous  sceptre  and  Thy  sword 
Are  seen  to  earth's  far  ends. 


Let  Zion  then  be  glad. 

Rejoicing  in  her  King; 
Because  Thy  judgments  are  so  just, 

Let  all  her  daughters  sing. 


About  Mount  Zion  walk, 

All  round  about  her  go; 
Exulting  count  her  towers  of  strength, 

That  guard  from  every  foe. 


Her  palaces  traverse, 

Her  bulwarks  mark  ye  well! 
That  to  the  children  following  on 

Ye  may  her  glory  tell. 


Since  such  a  God  is  ours, 

In  Him  we  will  confide; 
He  is  our  God  forevermore. 

And  unto  death  will  guide. 

Psalm  XLVIIL 

53 


Lyrics  fram  the  Psalter 


LI. 

O  God,  be  merciful  to  me, 
According  to  Thy  love  and  grace; 

In  Thy  compassions,  boundless,  free, 
Blot  out  my  sins,  their  stain  efface. 

O  wash  me  wholly  from  my  sin, 

And  cleanse  me  from  my  guilt  within. 

For  I  my  great  transgressions  own; 

My  sin's  before  me,  day  and  night; 
I've  sinned  against  Thee,  Thee  alone, 

And  done  this  evil  in  Thy  sight; 
That  Thou  mayst  be  in  judgment  clear, 
And  justified  in  words  severe. 

Conceived  and  born  was  I  in  sin; 

From  fount  corrupt  foul  waters  flow; 
But  Thou  desirest  truth  within, 

And  there  wilt  make  me  wisdom  know. 
With  sprinkling  hyssop  cleanse  Thou  me, 
And  clean  indeed  I  then  shall  be. 

Yea,  wash  me,  and  I  shall  appear 
E'en  whiter  than  the  driven  snow; 

O  make  me  joy  and  gladness  hear, 
That  bones  Thou'st  broken  joy  may  know. 

From  all  my  sins  hide  Thou  Thy  face, 

And  blot  them  out  in  Thy  free  grace. 

Create  in  me  a  clean,  pure  heart; 

Renew  a  spirit  steadfast,  right; 
O  cast  me  not  from  Thee  apart. 

Nor  take  Thy  Spirit  from  me  quite. 

Psalm  LI. 

54 


Lyrics  from  the  Psalter 


Restore  salvation's  joy  untold, 
And  with  Thy  Spirit  free  uphold. 


Transgressors  then  I'll  teach  Thy  way, 
And  sinners  shall  return  to  Thee. 

Cleanse  me  from  crimson  guilt,  I  pray, 
Thou  God  of  my  salvation  free. 

Aloud  my  tongue  shall  then  confess 

And  sing  Thy  glorious  righteousness. 


Open  my  lips,  my  song  inspire; 

And  from  my  mouth  Thy  praise  shall  pour. 
No  sacrifice  dost  Thou  desire; 

No  offering-burnt  delights  Thee  more; 
Else  would  I  give  it  for  my  sin. 
But  Thou  no  pleasure  hast  therein. 


A  spirit  broken  for  its  sins, 
A  heart  that  in  contrition  sighs — 

This  sacrifice  Thy  favor  wins; 
This,  Thou,  O  God,  wilt  not  despise. 

The  contrite  heart,  the  humble  mind, 

Alone  with  Thee  acceptance  find. 


Do  good  to  Zion;  grace  accord, 
And  in  Thy  favor  shown  to  them 

Build  Thou  again  the  walls,  O  Lord, 
The  walls  of  Thy  Jerusalem, 

Then  men  shall  all  right  offerings  make, 

And  Thou  in  them  new  pleasure  take. 

Psalm  LI. 

55 


Lviics  from  the  Psalter 


LV. 

SELECTED    VERSES 

O  God,  give  Thou  ear  to  my  plea, 
And  hide  not  Thyself  from  my  cry; 

Attend  Thou,  and  answer  Thou  me, 
As  restless  and  moaning  I  cry. 


O  that  I  had  wings  like  a  dove! 

For  then  I  would  fly  far  away, 
And  seek  for  the  rest  that  I  love, 

Where  trouble  no  more  could  dismay. 


Afar  would  I  wander  unseen, 

And  lodge  in  the  wilderness  vast; 

I'd  haste  to  a  shelter  serene 
From  tempest  and  wind's  stormy  blast. 


Nay,  soul ;  call  on  God  all  the  day ; 

The  Lord  for  thy  help  will  appear. 
At  eve,  morn,  and  noon  humbly  pray, 

And  He  thy  petition  will  hear. 


Thy  burden  thus  cast  on  the  Lord, 
And  He  shall  thy  weakness  sustain. 

The  righteous  who  trust  in  His  word 
Unmoved  shall  forever  remain. 


Psalm  LV. 

56 


from  the  Psalter 


LVII. 
vv.  1-3,  7-1 1. 

0  God,  be  merciful  to  me, 
Be  merciful  to  me,  I  pray; 

My  soul  its  refuge  finds  in  Thee, 

When  troubles  thicken  o'er  my  way; 
Beneath  Thy  sheltering  wings  in  peace 

1  safe  will  hide  till  troubles  cease. 


To  Thee,  Most  High,  shall  rise  my  prayer. 
For  Thou  dost  perfect  all  for  me; 

When  foes  reproach  and  would  ensnare, 
Thy  help  from  heaven  mine  eyes  shall  see; 

Thou  wilt  Thy  truth  and  mercy  send, 

As  guardian  angels  to  defend. 


My  heart  is  fixed,  O  God,  on  Thee, 
My  heart  is  fixed,  to  Thee  I  cling; 

Awake  my  soul  to  minstrelsy, 

My  harp  and  lute,  awake  each  string ; 

The  shades  of  night  are  now  withdrawn, 

I  would  with  song  awake  the  dawn. 

To  Thee  a  thankful  hymn  I'll  raise, 
Thou  hast  been  merciful  to  me; 

Among  the  people  will  I  praise. 
Among  the  nations  sing  to  Thee 

Of  mercy  great  as  heaven  is  high, 

Of  truth  that  reaches  to  the  sky. 

Psalm  LVII. 

57 


Lyrics  from  the  Psalter 


Be  Thou,  O  God,  exalted  high 
Above  the  heaven's  majestic  frame; 

Above  the  earth  now  magnify 

The  matchless  glory  of  Thy  name; 

Let  earth  below,  and  heaven  above, 

Exalt  and  praise  Thee,  God  of  love. 


LXL 

Hear  Thou,  O  God,  my  mournful  plaint, 

And  to  my  humble  prayer  attend. 
When  overwhelmed  my  heart  grows  faint. 
To  Thee  I'll  call  from  earth's  far  end; 
O,  lead  me,  as  for  help  I  flee 
Unto  the  rock  too  high  for  me. 

Since  Thou  my  refuge  oft  hast  been. 

When  fierce  the  storm  against  me  rose; 
My  tower  of  strength  and  peace  serene, 
Secure  against  my  wrathful  foes, 
I'll  ever  in  Thy  house  abide, 
And  'neath  Thy  sheltering  wings  will  hide. 

For  Thou  hast  heard  my  vows  and  prayer, 

And  in  Thy  grace  hast  made  my  own 
The  heritage  Thou  dost  prepare 
For  those  who  fear  Thy  name  alone. 
Days  to  the  King  Thou  wilt  increase; 
Nor  shall  His  years  through  ages  cease. 

He  shall  forevermore  abide 

Enthroned,  O  God,  at  Thy  right  hand: 
Mercy  and  truth  do  Thou  provide, 

Psalms  LVIL  and  LXL 

58 


Lyrics  from  the  Psalter 


And  bid  as  guards  around  Him  stand; 
So  will  I  praise  Thy  name  for  aye, 
And  thus  my  vows  will  daily  pay. 


LXIII. 

0  God,  my  God,  yes,  Thou  art  mine. 
And  I  will  early  seek  Thy  face; 

My  thirsty  soul  for  Thee  doth  pine. 

My  flesh  doth  long  to  taste  Thy  grace, 
As  in  a  dry  and  weary  land, 
Whose  springs  are  sunk  in  desert  sand. 

So  in  Thy  hallowed  house  of  prayer 
With  joy  I  oft  have  looked  on  Thee, 

And  seen  Thy  power  and  glory  there 
Revealed  in  vision  unto  me. 

For  kindness,  e'en  than  life  more  sweet, 

My  lips  would  render  praises  meet. 

So  will  I  bless  Thee  while  I  live. 
Lift,  in  Thy  name,  my  hands  in  prayer; 

A  full  content  Thy  love  doth  give. 

And  sweeter  than  earth's  daintiest  fare. 

My  lips  shall  praise  Thee  with  delight. 

And  thoughts  of  Thee  make  glad  the  night. 

Thou  art  my  helper  by  my  side; 
O'ershadowed  by  Thy  wings  I  sing. 

1  follow  Thee,  my  faithful  guide, 
And  to  Thine  arm  I  closely  cling: 

Thy  strong  right  hand  upholdeth  me. 
And  giveth  strength  to  walk  with  Thee. 

Psalms  LXL  and  LXIII. 

59 


Lyrics  from  tlie  Psalter 


While  those  that  would  my  soul  destroy 
Shall  sink  away  in  earth's  dark  deeps, 

In  God,  my  Saviour,  I  will  joy, 
Who  gently  leads  and  safely  keeps. 

The  saints  shall  glory  in  His  name, 

When  foes  are  filled  with  silent  shame. 


LXV. 

O  God,  in  Zion,  unto  Thee, 

In  stillness  comes  a  song  of  praise; 

And  there  to  Thee  performed  shall  be 
The  vow  we  made  in  troubled  days. 

O  Thou  Whose  ear  doth  ever  hear, 

To  Thee  in  prayer  shall  all  draw  near. 

Prevailing  sins  my  soul  cast  down, 
But  Thou  wilt  our  transgressions  hide. 

How  blest  the  man  Thy  choice  doth  crown, 
And  bid  within  Thy  courts  abide. 

We  shall  be  satisfied  with  grace, 

The  goodness  of  Thy  holy  place. 

By  fearful  deeds  of  righteousness, 
And  by  Thy  judgments  ever  just, 

Thou'lt  answer  us  when  in  distress, 
O  God,  our  sole  salvation's  trust; 

Earth's  utmost  ends  confide  in  Thee, 

And  those  far  off  upon  the  sea. 

Thou  dost  with  strength  the  mountains  gird, 
And  restless  waves  and  nations  still; 

Earth's  utmost  bounds  with  fear  are  stirred 
Before  the  tokens  of  Thy  will. 

Psalms  LXIII.  and  LXV. 

60 


Lyrics  from  the  Psalfcr 


The  gates  that  yield  and  hide  the  day, 
In  songs  of  joy  their  tribute  pay. 

Thy  showers  make  glad  the  wilderness; 

Thy  fountains  full  enrich  the  plain; 
The  softened  furrows  Thou  dost  bless 

With  springing  blade  and  waving  grain. 
The  year  with  goodness  Thou  dost  crown, 
And  riches  from  Thy  paths  drip  down. 

They  drop  upon  the  pastures  sere; 

They  make  the  joy-girt  hills  more  glad; 
The  meadows  clothed  with  flocks  appear; 

The  vales  in  harvest  robes  are  clad. 
And  unto  Thee,  O  God,  our  King, 
They  shout  for  joy;  they  also  sing. 


LXVII. 

O  God,  be  merciful  to  us. 

And  bless  Thou  us,  Thy  servants  pray, 
And  cause  the  brightness  of  Thy  face 

To  shine  on  us  with  cheering  ray; 
That  known  on  earth  Thy  way  may  be, 
And  nations  Thy  salvation  see. 

O  let  the  peoples  praise  Thee,  Lord, 
Let  all  the  peoples  give  Thee  praise ; 

O  let  the  nations  all  be  glad, 
And  sing  to  Thee  in  joyful  lays; 

For  Thou  wilt  judge  in  righteousness, 

Earth's  nations  shall  Thy  sway  confess. 

Psalms  LXV.  and  LXVII. 

6i 


Lyrics  from  the  Psalter 


O  let  the  peoples  praise  Thee,  Lord, 
Let  all  the  peoples  give  Thee  praise. 

The  earth  hath  yielded  her  increase, 
And  God  will  bless  us  all  our  days. 

Yea,  God,  our  God,  will  blessing  send, 

Till  He  is  feared  to  earth's  far  end. 


LXVIIL 

PART  I. 

Let  God  arise,  and  by  His  might 
Let  all  His  foes  be  put  to  flight; 
Let  them  that  hate  Him  flee  apace 
Before  the  brightness  of  His  face. 

As  smoke  is  driven  before  the  blast, 
So  drive  Thou  them  away  at  last: 
As  wax  is  melted  by  the  fire. 
Let  sinners  perish  at  God's  ire. 

But  let  the  saints  before  Him  sing, 
Let  them  rejoice  before  their  King; 
Yea,  let  them  all  with  heart  and  voice 
In  Him  exceedingly  rejoice. 

Sing  unto  God,  declare  His  fame, 
And  praise  Jehovah's  holy  name. 
Cast  up  a  highway,  smooth  and  wide. 
For  Him  Who  doth  through  deserts  ride. 

For  He  within  His  holy  place 
Is  evermore  a  God  of  grace; 
A  Father  of  the  fatherless, 
A  Judge  of  widows  in  distress. 

Psalms  LXVII.  and  LXVIIL 

62 


Lyrics  from  the  Psalter 


On  those  in  loneliness  and  woe 
Doth  God  a  happy  home  bestow; 
To  captives  He  doth  freedom  give, 
In  deserts  the  rebellious  live. 


PART   II. 

When  Thou,  O  God,  didst  lead  the  way 
Before  Thy  people  day  by  day — 
When  through  the  wilderness  so  dread 
Thou  marchedst  on  with  stately  tread — 

Earth  shook  with  fear ;  the  heavens  were  bowed 
Before  Thy  presence  in  the  cloud; 
Yon  Sinai  trembled  to  its  base 
Before  the  God  of  Israel's  race. 

Thou,  God,  didst  send  a  plenteous  rain 
To  cheer  Thy  weary,  parched  domain. 
Thy  people  dwelt  therein,  and  shared 
Thy  goodness  for  the  poor  prepared. 

The  Lord  Himself  the  word  hath  shown, 
A  host  of  women  make  it  known. 
The  kings  of  armies  flee  away, 
And  she  at  home  divides  the  prey. 

Ye  peaks  of  Bashan,  though  so  high, 
Why  look  askance  with  envious  eye 
At  this  the  Mount  God  loves  so  well? 
For  here  the  Lord  will  ever  dwell. 

Psalm  LXVIII. 

63 


Lyrics  from  the  Psalter 


God's  chariots  on  His  people's  side 
Are  thousands,  thousands  multipHed; 
The  Lord's  among  them  in  His  grace, 
As  once  in  Sinai's  holy  place. 


Thou  hast  ascended  gloriously, 

And  captive  led  captivity. 

They  come  with  gifts  who  did  rebel. 

That  God  the  Lord  with  them  may  dwell. 

PART   III. 

Blest  be  the  Lord,  for  us  He  cares, 
And  day  by  day  our  burden  bears; 
Blest  be  the  God  Who  in  His  love 
Salvation  sends  us  from  above. 

God  is  to  us  a  God  Whose  arm 
Delivers  us  from  every  harm; 
Jehovah,  Lord  of  life,  will  save 
His  own  though  drawing  near  the  grave. 

They  have,  O  God,  Thy  goings  seen, 
Thy  royal  progress,  glorious  mien, 
When  Thou,  my  God,  my  King,  in  grace 
Didst  go  within  Thy  holy  place. 

The  singers  led  the  way  with  song; 
Behind  them  played  the  minstrel  throng; 
While  happy  maidens  all  around 
Made  timbrels  with  their  joy  resound. 

Psalm  LXVIII. 

64 


Lyrics  from  the  Psalter 


O  bless  ye  God;  your  praises  bring; 
Amid  the  congregation  sing, 
The  praises  of  the  Lord  recount, 
All  ye  that  spring  from  Israel's  fount. 

Yea,  sing  to  God!  earth's  kingdoms  sing! 
Sing  praises  to  the  Lord  our  King! 
Who  rides  upon  the  highest  heaven. 
And  by  Whose  voice  the  clouds  are  riven. 

Ascribe  ye  strength  to  God  alone: 
His  strength  is  in  the  heavens  shown. 
His  glorious  majesty  and  grace 
Are  over  Israel's  chosen  race. 

How  dreadful  from  Thy  holy  hill, 

O  God  of  Israel,  art  Thou  still. 

Thou  art  Thy  people's  strength  confessed; 

Thou  givest  power.    Let  God  be  blest. 


LXXII. 

PART  I. 
VV.    I-II. 

Give  Thy  judgments,  O  our  God, 

To  the  King  of  all  the  earth ; 
Give  Thy  righteous  sovereign  rod 

To  the  Son  of  royal  birth. 
Glorious  shall  His  kingdom  be. 

He  will  rule  Thy  saints  aright; 
And  Thy  suffering  poor  shall  see 

His  delivering,  saving  might. 

Psalms  LXVIII.  and  LXXII. 

65 


Lyrics  from  the  Psalter 


Then  the  very  hills  shall  yield 

Fruits  of  peace  and  righteousness: 
He  Thy  needy  ones  will  shield, 

Save  their  children  in  distress. 
Breaker  of  the  oppressor's  pride! 

All  to  Thee  in  fear  shall  bend, 
While  the  sun  and  moon  abide, 

Through  all  ages  till  the  end. 

He  will  come  as  gentle  rains 

On  the  new-mown  grass  distilled; 
And,  as  on  the  thirsty  plains 

Fall  the  showers  with  blessing  filled, 
In  His  days,  with  glory  crowned. 

Righteousness  shall  wide  prevail; 
Peace  through  all  the  earth  abound 

Till  the  light  of  moons  shall  fail. 

He  shall  reign  from  sea  to  sea, 

Through  all  lands  to  earth's  far  end; 
Wildest  tribes  shall  bow  the  knee, 

Foes  to  dust  their  faces  bend. 
Kings  of  distant  lands  shall  lay 

Rich  oblations  at  His  feet; 
All  earth's  kings  shall  tribute  pay, 

Nations  render  service  meet. 


PART  II. 

vv.  12-19, 
When  the  poor  and  needy  cry 

In  their  helplessness  and  grief, 
Then  the  pitying  Lord  is  nigh, 

And  will  grant  them  swift  relief. 

Psalm  LXXIL 

66 


Lyrics  from  the  Psalter 


From  the  oppressor's  wrath  and  power 
He'll  redeem  them  by  His  might; 

And  their  blood,  in  life's  last  hour, 
Shall  be  precious  in  His  sight. 


They  shall  live  and,  thankful,  bring 

Sheba's  gold  in  offering  meet. 
Ceaselessly  for  Zion's  King 

Prayer  shall  rise  as  incense  sweet. 
Constant  as  His  gifts  descend, 

Shall  return  the  gladsome  song; 
Praise  of  earth  and  heaven  blend, 

Blessing  Him  the  whole  day  long. 


Yea,  upon  the  mountain  height 

Plenteous  fields  of  grain  shall  stand; 
Rustling  in  the  winds  of  night, 

As  old  Lebanon's  cedars  grand. 
And  in  Zion,  happy  place. 

Numerous  sons  shall  spring  to  birth, 
Flourishing  in  princely  grace. 

As  the  grass  that  decks  the  earth. 


Ever  shall  His  name  endure 

And  increase  while  shines  the  light; 
Scattering  wide  its  blessings  pure, 

Till  the  sun  shall  sink  in  night. 
Yea,  though  sun  and  stars  grow  dim, 

Fade  away  to  shine  no  more, 
Men  shall  still  be  blessed  in  Him, 

Call  Him  happy  and  adore. 

Psalm  LXXII. 

67 


Lyrics  fram  the  Psalter 


Blessed  be  the  King  of  kings! 

Blessed  Thou,  Jehovah  God! 
Who  alone  dost  wondrous  things, 

God  of  Israel  and  our  God. 
Blessed  be  Thy  glorious  name! 

Name  of  all  surpassing  worth — 
Jesus  Christ  fore'er  the  same — 

Let  Thy  glory  fill  the  earth! 


LXXVII. 

vv.  16-20. 

The  waters  saw  Thee,  mighty  God, 

The  waters  saw  and  fled, 
The  depths  were  shaken  'neath  Thy  rod. 

They  trembled  in  their  dread. 

The  clouds  outpoured  their  waters,  Lord, 

The  skies  sent  out  a  sound, 
Thine  arrows  also  flew  abroad, 

And  scattered  fears  around. 

Thy  thunder's  voice  in  whirlwinds  came; 

Thy  lightning's  vivid  light 
Lit  up  the  world  with  lurid  flame; 

Earth  trembled  at  the  sight. 

Thy  way  within  the  sea  hath  been, 
Thy  path  through  waters  deep; 

And  though  Thy  footsteps  were  not  seen, 
Thou  didst  Thy  people  keep. 

Psalms  LXXII.  and  LXXVII. 

68 


Lyrics  from  the  Psalter 


For  Thou  didst  lead  them  like  a  flock, 
By  Thine  own  servants'  hand, 

Through  parted  sea,  by  riven  rock. 
To  Canaan's  promised  land. 


LXXX. 

vv.  8-14. 

Forth  from  a  land  of  barrenness  and  gloom 
A  vine  Thou  broughtest  with  most  patient  toil, 

And  badst  the  fruitless  nations  give  it  room. 
That  Thou  mightst  plant  it  in  a  fertile  soil. 

Deep  struck  its  roots,  it  filled  the  land's  far  length, 
The  hills  were  covered  with  its  perfumed  shade; 

And  with  its  tendrils  clinging  to  their  strength, 
The  goodly  cedars  stood  with  grace  arrayed. 

Its  boughs  reached  out  to  greet  the  mighty  main. 
Far  to  the  river  ran  its  tender  shoots; 

And  through  Thy  nurturing  sunshine,  dew,  and  rain 
How  bright  its  verdure  and  how  fair  its  fruits! 

Why  hast  Thou  then  its  hedges  broken  down. 
That  all  do  pluck  it  who  pass  by  the  way? 

Foes  from  the  wood  despoil  its  beauty's  crown. 
Wild  from  the  field,  they  waste  it  as  their  prey. 

O  God  of  hosts,  return  Thou  to  Thine  own, 
Behold  and  visit  this  Thy  vine  once  more; 

Protect  the  branch  that  for  Thyself  alone 
Thy  right  hand  nurtured  in  the  days  of  yore. 

Psalms  LXXVII.  and  LXXX. 

6^ 


Lyrics  from  the  Psalter 


LXXXIV. 


PART   I. 


O  Lord,  how  lovely  to  Thy  saints 
Appear  the  dwellings  of  Thy  grace; 

My  spirit  in  its  longing  faints 
To  be  within  Thy  holy  place. 

O  living  God,  from  bended  knee, 

My  heart  and  flesh  cry  out  for  Thee. 


The  sparrow  in  Thy  house  finds  rest, 

And  near  Thy  very  altar  flits; 
There  too  the  swallow  builds  her  nest, 

And  quiet  through  her  brooding  sits: 
Where  birds  may  sing,  Thy  children  bring, 
O  Lord  of  Hosts,  my  God  and  King. 


Forever  happy.  Lord,  are  they 

Who  in  Thy  house  as  inmates  dwell: 

Their  praises  fill  the  live-long  day, 
And  still  'mid  evening  shadows  swell: 

Most  blessed  they,  their  strength  Thou  art; 

And  Zion's  ways  are  in  their  heart. 

When  through  the  vale  of  tears  they  pass, 
They  make  it  as  a  place  of  springs. 

Where  grow  sweet  comforts  as  the  grass, 
When  autumn's  rain  its  treasure  brings. 

Thus  may  each  vale  of  weeping  be 

A  vale  of  comfort  unto  me. 

Psalm  LXXXIV. 

70 


Lyrics  from  the  Psalter 


PART    II. 


They  onward  go  from  strength  to  strength, 
By  Thee  supported,  blessed,  and  cheered; 

Nor  falter  they,  until  at  length 
They  all  in  Zion  have  appeared. 

Lord  God  of  Hosts,  my  prayer  attend, 

Give  ear,  O  Jacob's  God  and  friend. 


Behold,  O  God,  our  perfect  shield, 
And  look  on  Thine  anointed's  face. 

One  day  with  Thee  more  joy  doth  yield 
Than  thousands  could  without  Thy  grace ; 

Though  only  at  Thy  door  I  wait, 

No  tents  of  sin  give  joy  so  great. 


Thee,  Lord,  our  sun  and  shield,  we  sing; 

All  grace  and  glory  Thou  wilt  give. 
Nor  any  good  nor  perfect  thing 

Withhold  from  those  who  purely  live. 
O  Lord  of  Hosts,  how  blest  is  he 
Who  trusteth  evermore  in  Thee. 


LXXXV. 

w,  9-13. 

To  them  that  fear  the  Lord  of  Hosts 

Is  His  salvation  near. 
That  ever  dwelling  in  our  coasts 

His  glory  may  appear. 

Psalms  LXXXIV.  and  LXXXV. 

71 


Lyrics  from  the  Psalter 


Mercy  and  truth,  of  heavenly  birth, 

In  Him  together  meet; 
And  righteousness  and  peace  on  earth 

Abide  in  concord  sweet. 

Truth  springs  from  earth  in  vernal  crown 

Of  grass  and  golden  grain. 
And  righteousness  from  heaven  looks  down 

In  sunshine  and  in  rain. 

The  Lord  will  give  us  every  good, 

And  bless  the  fruitful  field; 
The  earth,  to  fill  our  mouth  with  food, 

Shall  ample  increase  yield. 

Before  Him  righteousness  divine 

Shall  as  a  herald  go, 
And  on  our  path  His  footprints  shine 

To  guide  our  way  below. 


LXXXVL 

Bow  down  Thine  ear  and  answer.  Lord,  Thine  own. 
Needy  and  poor  beneath  affliction's  rod: 

Preserve  my  soul,  for  I  am  Thine  alone; 
Thy  trustful  servant  save,  O  Thou  my  God! 

Hear  Thou  my  cry,  be  merciful  to  me. 
For  all  day  long  I  seek  Thy  help  divine; 

Make  glad  Thy  servant's  heart,  for  unto  Thee 
Do  I  lift  up  my  soul,  forever  Thine. 

Psalms  LXXXV.  and  LXXXVL 

72 


Lyrics  from  the  Psalter 


For  Thou  art  good  and  ready  to  forgive, 

Plenteous  in  grace  to  praying  hearts  sincere. 

Give  ear,  O  Lord,  and  bid  Thy  servant  live; 
The  voice  of  all  my  supplications  hear. 

In  trouble's  day  I'll  call  on  Thee  alone, 
For  Thou  wilt  ever  hear  and  answer  prayer. 

None  like  to  Thee  among  the  gods  is  known, 
Nor  are  there  works  that  can  with  Thine  compare. 

All  nations,  whom  to  serve  Thee  Thou  hast  made, 
Shall  come  and  worship  at  Thy  holy  shrine: 

Before  Thee,  Lord,  their  homage  shall  be  paid, 
And  they  shall  glorify  Thy  name  divine. 

For  Thou  art  great,  and  wondrous  things  Thou  dost; 

Thou,  Thou  art  God;  Thy  way  to  me  make  clear; 
Then  in  Thy  truth  I'll  walk  with  filial  trust: 

Unite  my  heart  Thy  holy  name  to  fear. 

Thee,  Lord,  my  God,  I'll  praise  with  all  my  heart! 

Yea,  I  will  ever  glorify  Thy  name! 
For  great  in  mercy  unto  me  Thou  art, 

And  Thou  hast  saved  me  from  the  lowest  shame. 

Behold,  O  God,  the  proud  against  me  rise! 

Behold  their  throngs  who  violence  employ! 
They  have  not  set  Thy  fear  before  their  eyes, 

But  would  with  cruel  hands  my  soul  destroy. 

But  Thou,  O  Lord,  art  still  a  gracious  God, 
Full  of  compassion  as  in  days  of  old, 

Slow  unto  wrath,  withholding  long  Thy  rod, 
Rich  in  Thy  truth  and  mercies  manifold. 

Psalm  LXXXVL 

73 


Lyrics  from  the  Psalter 


O  turn  to  me ;  Thy  mercy  I  implore ; 

Hide  not  Thy  face  away  from  me  in  scorn: 
Thy  fainting  servant  with  Thy  strength  restore, 

And  save  the  son  of  Thine  own  handmaid  born. 

To  me  a  token  of  Thy  goodness  show, 

Which  they  who  hate  me  may  with  wonder  see 

And  be  ashamed,  as  at  the  last  they  know 
That  Thou  hast  comforted  and  holpen  me. 


LXXXVII. 

In  His  high  and  holy  mountains, 

God's  foundation  firm  behold ! 
More  than  earth's  most  stately  dwellings 

Loves  He  Zion's  gates  of  old. 
O  God's  City! 

Glorious  things  of  thee  are  told! 

Many — saith  He — will  I  mention 
As  of  those  that  know  My  name. 

Yea,  of  many  alien  peoples, 
This  shall  be  their  joy  and  fame — 

That,  O  Zion, 
Birth  in  thee  they  each  may  claim. 

Yea,  it  shall  be  said  of  Zion — 
This  one,  that  one,  there  had  birth. 

Her   the  Lord  Most  High  forever 
Will  establish  in  the  earth. 

Happy  Zion! 
This  thy  surety  and  thy  worth. 

Psalms  LXXXVI.  and  LXXXVII. 

74 


Lyrics  from  the  Psalter 


When  Jehovah  counts  His  people 
And  their  written  names  shall  see, 

This  and  that  one  born  in  Zion 
Shall  her  crowning  honor  be. 

Zion's  singers 
Say — My  springs  are  all  in  thee ! 


LXXXVIL 

The  Lord  His  Church  has  founded 

Upon  His  holy  hills, 
Where  His  abiding  presence 

Its  courts  with  glory  fills. 
He  loves  His  people's  dwellings 

And  guards  them  day  and  night, 
But  in  the  gates  of  Zion 

He  takes  supreme  delight. 


City  of  God,  how  glorious 

The  things  of  thee  foretold! 
How  great  this  word  of  promise 

The  ages  shall  unfold — 
*'Each  fierce  and  alien  nation 

Shall  yet  acknowledge  Me, 
And  I  confess  them  children, 

All  born  anew  in  thee." 

Soon  shall  it  be  recorded 

Of  each  and  every  one. 
That  life  forever  lasting 

In  Zion  was  begun. 

Psalm  LXXXVIL 

75 


Lyrics  from  the  Psalter 


That  glorious  day  to  hasten, 
The  Lord  Himself,  Most  High, 

Will  firm  His  Church  establish 
And  bring  the  nations  nigh. 

And  when  His  saints  He  numbers, 

And  writes  His  people  down. 
Their  birth  in  thee,  O  Zion, 

Shall  be  their  high  renown. 
The  singers  and  the  dancers, 

With  shouts  of  jubilee, 
Will  sing — "O  Zion  glorious, 

My  springs  are  all  in  thee." 


LXXXIX. 

VV.    I-IO. 

Forever  I'll  sing  of  Thy  mercies,  O  Lord, 
And  unto  all  ages  Thy  truth  will  record: 
Thy  mercy  shall  ever  be  builded  on  high. 
Thy  truth  be  established  e'en  unto  the  sky, 

A  covenant  sure  Thou  hast  made  with  Thine  own. 
And  sworn  to  Thy  Servant  to  build  up  His  throne; 
His  seed  to  establish,  His  kingdom  extend, 
Through  all  generations  and  world  without  end. 

The  heavens  to  Thy  wonders  glad  tribute  shall  bring; 
Yea,  all  holy  angels  Thy  faithfulness  sing, 
For  who  in  the  sky  can  be  likened  to  Thee? 
What  sons  of  the  mighty  Thine  equal  can  be? 

Psalms  LXXXVII.  and  LXXXIX. 

76 


Lyrics  from  the  Psalter 


A  God  to  be  feared  in  Thy  council  art  Thou, 
Above  all  who  round  Thee  in  reverence  bow; 
O  Lord  God  of  Hosts,  who  is  like  Thee  in  might, 
With  faithfulness  round  Thee  a  girdle  of  light? 

Thou  rulest  the  pride  of  the  sea  at  Thy  will, 
Its  proud  swelling  waters  Thou  biddest  be  still; 
Thou  Egypt  hast  crushed  like  the  slain  from  the  land. 
And  scattered  Thy  foes  with  omnipotent  hand. 

vv.  11-18. 

The  heavens,  Lord,  are  Thine;  Thine  the  earth  and 

the  sea; 
The  world  and  its  fulness  were  founded  by  Thee; 
The  North  and  the  South  their  Creator  proclaim, 
And  Tabor  and  Hermon  rejoice  in  Thy  name. 

An  arm  clothed  with  might,  yea,  a  strong  hand  is 

Thine, 
And  high  is  Thy  right  hand  of  power  divine: 
On  justice  and  judgment  is  founded  Thy  throne. 
While  mercy  and  truth  as  Thy  heralds  are  known. 

How  happy  the  people  who  know  the  glad  sound ; 
They  walk  in  the  sunshine  Thy  face  sheds  around; 
All  day  they  rejoice  in  the  Lord  Whom  they  love, 
And  righteously  wilt  Thou  exalt  them  above. 

For  Thou  dost  their  strength  with  Thy  beauty  adorn. 
And  in  Thy  great  favor  wilt  lift  up  our  horn; 
Our  King  and  our  shield  of  protection  are  Thine, 
Who  only  art  holy,  O  Saviour  divine! 

Psalm  LXXXIX. 

77 


Lyrics  from  the  Psalter 


XC. 


PART  I. 

Lord,  Thou  our  dwelling  place  hast  been 

In  every  generation. 
Before  the  new-born  hills  were  seen, 

Or  earth  was  Thy  creation. 

Thou,  Thou  art  God  from  endless  years 

To  ages  never  ending. 
But  man,  when  he  Thy  summons  hears. 

How  soon  to  dust  descending! 

A  thousand  years,  before  Thy  sight, 

As  yesterday  have  tarried. 
They  vanish  as  a  watch  of  night ; 

Away  by  floods  are  carried. 

They're  like  a  sleep,  or  like  the  grass 
The  morning  light  doth  cherish : 

It  groweth  up,  but,  then,  alas ! 
At  evening  time  doth  perish. 

For  by  Thy  wrath  are  we  consumed ; 

We  fear  Thine  anger's  terrors. 
Our  sins  before  Thee  stand  illumed, 

Our  secret  sins  and  errors. 

For  all  our  days  are  passing  by, 

Before  Thine  anger  flying; 
Our  wasting  years  are  as  a  sigh 

In  silence  quickly  dying. 

Psalm  XC. 

78 


Lyrics  from  the  Psalter 


Life's  days  are  three  score  years  and  ten 
If  strength  ten  more  may  borrow, 

Their  pride  is  toil  and  grief;  and  then 
We  fly  away  to-morrow. 

Who  knows  the  power  Thine  anger  hath, 
When  mercy  may  not  sue  Thee? 

O  let  Thy  fear  be  as  Thy  wrath, 
The  fear  from  mortals  due  Thee! 

So  teach  Thou  us  to  count  each  day, 

That  wisdom  may  avail  us ! 
Return,  O  Lord  ;  how  long  delay  ? 

Let  not  Thy  mercy  fail  us! 

O  fill  us  early  with  Thy  grace, 
That  life  may  be  all  gladness ! 

Yea,  in  our  hearts  may  joy  have  place, 
As  Thou  hast  given  us  sadness ! 

Thy  work  to  all  Thy  servants  show, 
And  to  their  sons  Thy  glory ! 

Thy  beauty,  Lord,  our  God,  bestow, 
And  prosper  Thou  life's  story ! 


XCL 

Who  dwelleth  by  His  grace 

Within  the  secret  place 
Of  God  Most  High   shall  e'er  abide 

Within  the  Almighty's  shade. 

Whom  I've  my  refuge  made; 
The  Lord  my  God,  in  Whom  I  hide. 

Psalms  XC.  and  XCI. 

79 


Lyrics  from  the  Psalter 


Then  thee,  with  watchful  care, 

He'll  save  from  fowler's  snare, 
And  from  the  deadly  pestilence. 

His  wings  shall  cover  thee; 

His  truth  thine  armor  be, 
Thy  shield  and  buckler  of  defence. 

No  terror  of  the  night 

Shall  ever  thee  affright; 
Nor  arrow  flying  swift  by  day. 

Though  plagues  in  darkness  haste, 

Or  at  the  noonday  waste, 
Naught  shall  thy  trustful  heart  dismay. 

Though  myriads  at  thy  side 

Are  smitten  in  their  pride, 
No  ill  shall  e'er  come  nigh  to  thee. 

Since  thou  hast  made  the  Lord — 

My  refuge — thine  abode. 
Thine  eyes  alone  their  doom  shall  see. 

His  angels  He  commands 

To  bear  thee  on  their  hands. 
To  keep  thy  way  and  smooth  thy  path. 

If  fierce  and  treacherous  foes 

Thy  footsteps  should  oppose, 
Thou  shalt  tread  down  their  harmless  wrath. 

Yea,  since  on  God  above 

Thy  heart  hath  set  its  love. 
He'll  rescue  thee  when  sore  distressed; 

Yea,  high  above  assault 

He  will  thy  soul  exalt; 
Because  thou  hast  His  name  confessed. 

Psalm  XCI. 

80 


^ 


Lyrics  from  the  Psalter 


And  when  thy  prayers  arise, 

He'll  answer  from  the  skies, 
And  help  and  honor  will  bestow. 

In  trouble  will  be  nigh; 

With  life  will  satisfy; 
And  then  His  great  salvation  show. 


XCII. 
vv.  1-7,  12-15. 

How  good  it  is  to  praise  Thee,  Lord, 
To  sing  Thy  name,  O  Thou  Most  High, 

Thy  morning  mercies  to  record. 

And  tell  Thy  truth  when  night  is  nigh. 

The  ten-stringed  lute  and  lyre  I'll  bring, 

And  with  the  tuneful  harp  I'll  sing. 

Glad  in  Thy  work,  Thy  day  I'll  keep; 

I'll  boast  the  wonders  of  Thy  hand. 
How  great  Thy  works,  Thy  thoughts  how  deep, 

The  wicked  ne'er  can  understand. 
As  grass  they  flourish  for  a  day, 
And  then  destroyed  are  swept  away. 

Like  palm  trees  in  their  stately  grace, 
Like  Lebanon's  cedars,  strong  and  fair, 

The  saints  within  Thy  holy  place 
Shall  ever  grow,  and  flourish  there. 

Planted  within  Thy  Church  they  stand, 

The  strength  and  glory  of  the  land. 

Psalms  XCL  and  XCII. 

81 


Lvrics  from  the  Psalter 


Still  in  old  age  their  fruit  they  bear, 
Their  leaf  abides  forever  green, 

That  thej  to  all  men  may  declare 

That  Thou,  O  Lord,  hast  upright  been. 

O  Thou  my  Rock,  to  Whom  I  flee, 

There's  no  unrighteousness  in  Thee. 


XCIII. 

Jehovah  reigns;  He  sits  enrobed 

With  majesty  and  light; 
Jehovah  robes  Himself  with  strength, 

And  girds  Him  round  with  might. 

The  world  is  fixed,  nor  can  be  moved; 

Established  it  appears. 
And  fixed  Thy  throne  of  old,  Who  art 

From  everlasting  years. 

The  floods  have  lifted  up,  O  Lord, 

Have  lifted  up  their  voice; 
The  floods  lift  up  their  roaring  waves, 

And  in  their  might  rejoice. 

But  throned  above  them  is  the  Lord; 

And  mightier  far  is  He 
Than  many  waters'  lifted  voice, 

Or  breakers  of  the  sea. 

Thy  testimonies,  very  sure, 

Abide  as  from  of  yore; 
And  holiness  becomes  Thy  house, 

O  Lord,  forevermore. 

Psalms  XCII.  and  XCIII. 

8a 


Lyrics  from  the  Psalter 


xcv. 

Now  with  joyful  exultation 

Let  us  sing  Jehovah's  praise; 
To  the  Rock  of  our  salvation 

Loud  hosannahs  let  us  raise. 
Thankful  tribute  gladly  bringing, 

Let  us  come  before  Him  now, 
And  with  psalms  His  praises  singing, 

Joyful  in  His  presence  bow. 

For,  how  great  a  God,  and  glorious, 

Is  Jehovah  Whom  we  sing ! 
Over  idol-gods  victorious, 

He's  a  great,  the  only,  King. 
In  His  hand  are  earth's  deep  places; 

His  the  strength  of  all  the  hills ; 
His  the  sea  whose  bounds  He  traces; 

His  the  land  His  bounty  fills. 

To  the  Lord,  such  might  revealing, 

Let  us  bow  with  reverence  meet; 
To  the  Lord  our  Maker  kneeling. 

Come  and  worship  at  His  feet. 
He  is  our  own  God  and  leads  us; 

We  the  people  of  His  care; 
With  a  shepherd's  hand  He  feeds  us 

As  His  flock  in  pastures  fair. 

While  He  profilers  peace  and  pardon, 
Let  us  hear  His  voice  to-day; 

Lest  if  we  our  hearts  should  harden. 
We  should  perish  in  the  way. 

Psalm  XCV. 

83 


Lyrics  from  the  Psalter 


Lest  to  us,  so  unbelieving, 

He  in  righteous  wrath  shall  swear- 
"Ye  so  long  My  Spirit  grieving, 

Never  in  My  rest  can  share." 


XCVL 


PART   I. 


O  sing  to  Jehovah,  a  new  song  prepare ; 
O  sing,  all  ye  people,  His  glory  declare. 
Yea,  sing  to  Jehovah,  and  bless  ye  His  name; 
From  day  unto  day  His  salvation  proclaim. 

Among  all  the  nations  His  glory  make  known; 
Among  all  the  peoples  His  wonders  be  shown. 
For  great  and  most  worthy  of  praise  is  the  Lord, 
Above  all  the  gods  to  be  feared  and  adored. 

The  gods  of  the  peoples  are  idols,  and  nought; 
Jehovah  the  heavens  hath  wondrously  wrought. 
All  honor  and  glory  encompass  Him  round, 
And  beauty  and  strength  in  His  temple  are  found. 

O  give  to  Jehovah,  each  kindred  and  tribe, 

Yea,  glory  and  strength  to  Jehovah  ascribe; 

O  give  Him  the  glory  becoming  His  name ; 

And  come  with  an  offering.  His  praise  to  proclaim. 

O  worship  Jehovah  in  holy  array, 

In  beautiful  garments  of  holiness  pray. 

Yea,  let  all  the  earth  in  His  presence  appear, 

And  bow  down  before  Him  with  trembling  and  fear. 

Psalms  XCV.  and  XCVL 

84 


Lyrics  from  the  Psalter 


PART   II. 

O  say  to  the  nations — Jehovah  doth  reign; 
The  world  He  hath  founded  unmoved  shall  remain. 
The  peoples  He'll  judge,  with  His  equity  clad; 
Let  heaven,  earth,  and  sea,  and  their  fulness  be  glad. 

Let  fields  and  their  fruitage  before  Him  rejoice, 
And  let  all  the  trees  sing  for  joy  at  His  voice. 
Yea,  let  them  before  Him,  Who  only  is  Lord, 
Rejoice,  for  He  cometh  to  judgment  award. 

He  cometh,  He  cometh  to  judge  at  His  bar 
The  earth  and  all  peoples  though  scattered  afar. 
The  world  He  shall  judge  in  His  righteousness  pure, 
And  all  of  the  peoples  with  truth  ever  sure. 


xcvn. 

PART  I. 

Let  earth  rejoice,  the  Lord  doth  reign, 

Let  all  the  isles  be  glad; 
Judgment  and  right  His  throne  maintain, 

With  clouds  and  darkness  clad. 

Devouring  fire  before  Him  burns, 

Consuming  every  foe; 
The  trembling  earth  with  fear  discerns 

His  lightnings'  vivid  glow. 

Before  Him  mountains  melt  away 

Like  wax  before  the  flame. 
Before  the  Lord  Who  day  by  day 

Upholds  earth's  solid  frame. 

Psalms  XCVI.  and  XCVIL 

85 


Lyrics  from  the  Psalter 


The  heavens  that  shine  by  His  decree 
His  righteousness  declare; 

And  all  the  wondering  people  see 
His  glory  everywhere. 


Ashamed  be  they  who  serve  and  boast 
Their  gods  of  wood  and  stone. 

Worship  the  Lord,  ye  idol  host, 
For  He  is  God  alone. 


Because  Thy  judgments,  Lord,  are  just, 
And  great  deliverance  bring, 

Zion  is  glad,  and  from  the  dust 
Her  daughters  rise  and  sing. 

For  Thou,  Jehovah,  art  Most  High, 

Above  the  earth  apart; 
Above  all  gods  beneath  the  sky 

Exalted  far  Thou  art. 


O  ye  who  love  the  Lord  indeed 

Hate  sin,  for  He  is  pure ; 
His  saints  from  wicked  hands  are  freed 

And  kept  by  Him  secure. 

Light  for  the  righteous  man  is  sown 

Upon  his  way  below; 
And  joy  for  upright  hearts  is  strewn, 

As  to  their  home  they  go. 

Psalm  XCVIL 

86 


Lyrics  from  the  Psalter 


Then  in  the  Lord,  ye  saints,  rejoice; 

With  song  His  grace  proclaim ; 
Give  thanks  to  Him  with  heart  and  voice, 

And  bless  His  holy  name. 


xcvni. 

Sing  to  the  Lord  a  glad,  new  song. 
For  He  most  wondrous  things  hath  done; 

With  holy  arm,  and  right  hand  strong, 
He  hath  salvation's  victory  won. 

The  Lord,  our  Saviour,  hath  made  known 
His  great  salvation  from  the  skies; 

And  thus  His  righteousness  hath  shewn 
Before  the  nations'  wondering  eyes. 

Mercy  and  truth  toward  Israel's  race 
The  Lord  hath  ever  kept  in  mind; 

And  earth's  far  ends  have  seen  the  grace 
That  brought  salvation  to  mankind. 

And  now  let  earth  unto  the  Lord 
A  shout  of  glad  thanksgiving  raise; 

Break  forth  and  sing,  and  strike  each  chord, 
And  joyful  sing  His  worthy  praise. 

Yea,  to  the  Lord  your  music  bring. 
With  harps  and  all-melodious  voice ; 

Let  trumpets  shout,  let  cornets  ring. 
Let  all  before  the  King  rejoice. 

Psalms  XCVII.  and  XCVIII. 

87 


/ 


Lyrics  from  the  Psalter 


Let  seas  and  all  their  fulness  roar, 
The  world,  and  they  that  on  it  dwell; 

Let  floods  clap  hands  from  shore  to  shore, 
And  hills  their  joy  together  tell — 

Before  the  Lord,  Who  comes  in  might 
To  judge  the  earth  in  righteousness; 

The  Lord  will  judge  the  world  aright, 
And  will  in  grace  His  saints  confess. 


XCIX. 

Jehovah  reigns;  exalt  and  worship  Him; 

Let  all  the  people  tremble  in  His  sight; 
He  sits  enthroned  upon  the  cherubim; 

Let  earth  be  moved  before  His  presence  bright. 

Great  is  the  Lord;  in  Zion  great  His  fame; 

Above  the  people  He  is  throned  on  high; 
Then  let  them  praise  His  great  and  fearful  name, 

For  ever  Holy,  Holy,  Holy,  cry. 

His  kingly  strength  in  judgment  takes  delight. 
In  equity  His  throne  established  stands; 

Just  are  His  ways;  His  judgments  true  and  right, 
Wrought  for  His  people  by  His  holy  hands. 

Exalt  the  Lord  our  God  and  worship  Him; 

Before  His  holy  footstool  bow  the  knee. 
Responsive  sing,  with  veiled  seraphim. 

For  ever  Holy,  Holy,  Holy,  He. 

Psalms  XCVIIL  and  XCIX. 

88 


Lyrics  from  the  Psalter 


His  own  anointed  called  upon  His  name, 
They  called  on  Him  Who  cleft  the  surging  wave; 

He,  answering,  spake  from  pillar-cloud  and  flame ; 
They  kept  His  law  and  He  their  sin  forgave. 

Exalt  the  Lord  our  God,  and  worship  Him, 
Before  His  holy  mountain  bend  the  knee; 

Holy  He  dwells  between  the  cherubim, 
For  ever  Holy,  Holy,  Holy,  He. 


C. 

O  make  a  joyful  noise,  ye  lands. 
And  serve  the  Lord  with  fear! 

With  gladness  wait  His  high  commands, 
And  with  a  song  draw  near. 

Know  that  the  Lord  is  God  alone, 

He  made  us  and  will  keep; 
For  His  we  are  and  not  our  own, 

His  people  and  His  sheep. 

With  glad  thanksgiving  throng  His  gates 

His  goodness  to  proclaim; 
Within  His  courts  where  mercy  waits 

Give  thanks  and  bless  His  name. 

For  He  is  good,  and  time  shall  prove 

His  mercies  ever  sure; 
And  while  the  ages  onward  move 

His  truth  shall  still  endure. 

Psalms  XCIX.  and  C. 

89 


Lyrics  from  the  Psalter 


cm. 


Awake,  my  soul,  and  bless  the  Lord, 
Let  all  within  me  bless  His  name; 

Awake,  my  soul,  and  bless  the  Lord, 
His  countless  benefits  proclaim; 

Who  cleanses  every  guilty  stain, 

Who  heals  thy  sickness,  soothes  thy  pain. 

Thy  life  from  death  His  love  redeems. 
And,  like  a  sun.  He  crowns  thy  days 

With  loving-kindness'  gentle  beams. 
And  tender  mercy's  warmer  rays; 

Thy  heart's  desire  He  satisfies, 

And  strength  of  youth  anew  supplies. 


By  deeds  of  righteousness  confessed 
The  Lord  hath  set  His  captives  free; 

And  all  His  suffering  and  oppressed 
Shall  His  delivering  judgments  see. 

Thus  were  His  ways  to  Moses  known, 

His  acts  to  pilgrim  Israel  shown. 


Most  merciful  and  gracious  Lord! 

How  slow  to  wrath!  how  rich  in  grace! 
Thou  lovest  not  the  chiding  word, 

Nor  keepest  long  an  angry  face. 
Not  as  our  guilt  and  sins  have  been. 
Have  we  Thy  righteous  judgments  seen. 

Psalm  cm. 

90 


Lyrics  from  the  Psalter 


For  high  as  heaven  above  us  bends, 
So  great  Thy  mercy  stands  approved; 

As  far  as  East  from  West  extends, 
Hast  Thou  from  us  our  sins  removed. 

In  vain,  in  height  or  depth  of  space, 

We  seek  the  measure  of  such  grace. 


vv.  13-22. 

Like  as  a  father  pity  shows 

For  children  who  in  him  confide, 

The  Lord  His  pitying  love  bestows 
On  all  who  in  His  fear  abide; 

He  knows  our  frame,  and,  ever  just, 

Remembers  well  we  are  but  dust. 


The  days  of  man  are  as  the  grass, 
And  as  a  flower  he  blooms  and  dies; 

If  but  a  breath  shall  o'er  it  pass, 
How  soon  the  blossom  faded  lies; 

And  where  but  late  its  beauty  shone, 

It  blooms  no  more,  forever  gone. 


But  still  from  age  to  age  endures 
The  loving-kindness  of  the  Lord  ; 

And  still  His  righteousness  assures 
To  children's  children  rich  reward — 

To  such  as  keep  His  covenant  true, 

And  seek  His  holy  will  to  do. 

Psalm  cm. 

91 


Lyrics  from  tJie  Psalter 


Bless  Him  Whose  throne  established  stands, 
Whose  kingdom  ruleth  over  all! 

Bless  Him,  ye  mighty  angel  bands, 
Whose  legions  wait  the  Master's  call! 

Bless  Him,  His  works,  from  pole  to  pole, 

Bless  thou  Jehovah,  O  my  soul! 


CIV. 

PART  I. 

vv.  1-9. 

Now,  O  my  soul,  Jehovah  bless; 
O  Lord,  my  God,  let  all  confess 

That  Thou  art  very  great. 
How  gloriously  Thou  art  arrayed, 
With  majesty  and  honor  made 

Thy  robes  of  royal  state. 

Thou,  Lord,  dost  gird  Thyself  with  light, 
And  stretchest  out  with  wondrous  might 

The  curtain  of  the  sky. 
Thou  dost  within  the  waters  place 
The  crystal  beams,  that  bear  in  grace 

Thy  palace  halls  on  high. 

Thou  dost  of  clouds  Thy  chariot  form; 
And  on  the  wings  of  wind  and  storm 

Thou  movest  at  Thy  will. 
The  winds  Thy  messengers  are  made; 
By  flaming  fire  Thou  art  obeyed; 

They  all  Thy  word  fulfil. 

Psalms  cm.  and  CIV. 

92 


Lyrics  from  the  Psalter 


Fixed  on  a  firm  foundation  stone, 
Whence  it  could  ne'er  be  overthrown, 

The  earth  proclaimed  Thee  good. 
Then  with  the  waters,  as  a  robe. 
Thou  didst  enwrap  the  circling  globe; 

Above  the  hills  they  stood. 


At  Thy  rebuke  they  fled  away; 
The  hastening  waters  with  dismay 

Thy  voice  of  thunder  heard. 
The  mountains  rose,  the  valleys  sank, 
The  seas  within  the  confines  shrank 

Appointed  by  Thy  word. 


Their  bounds  Thou  didst  establish  then, 
That  they  might  ne'er  return  again 

The  earth  to  desolate. 
Now,  O  my  soul,  Jehovah  bless; 
O  Lord,  my  God,  let  all  confess 

That  Thou  art  very  great. 


PART  II. 

vv.  10- 18. 

Down  through  the  valleys,  'mid  the  hills. 
Thou  sendest  springs,  whose  flowing  rills 

All  creatures'  thirst  allay. 
The  birds  of  heaven  above  them  dwell, 
And  from  amid  the  branches  swell 

The  songs  that  greet  the  day. 

Psalm  CIV. 

93 


Lyrics  from  the  Psalter 


From  out  Thine  upper  rooms,  with  rain 
Thou  waterest  every  hill  and  plain, 

With  fruit  dost  fill  the  field. 
Thou  makest  grass  for  pasture  grow, 
And  herbs  to  serve  man's  need  bestow, 

That  earth  his  bread  may  yield. 

The  gladdening  clusters  of  the  vine, 
And  oil  to  make  his  face  to  shine, 

Thou  dost  for  man  prepare. 
Thy  trees  with  rain  are  satisfied — 
The  cedars  of  old  Lebanon's  pride — 

Which  Thou  hast  planted  there. 

The  little  bird  there  builds  its  nest, 
And  on  the  fir-tree's  lofty  crest 

The  kindly  stork  abides. 
The  wild  goat  climbs  the  mountain  peaks, 
And  in  the  rocks  the  coney  seeks 

A  refuge  where  it  hides. 

PART   III. 

vv.  19-23. 

The  changeful  moon  His  mandate  hears, 
And  leads,  through  all  the  circling  years, 

The  seasons  in  their  flight. 
The  sun  his  time  of  setting  knows. 
Darkness  He  makes  for  twilight's  close, 

And  it  at  once  is  night. 

Then  all  the  forest  beasts  awake, 
And  through  the  woods  their  way  they  take 
With  creeping,  stealthy  feet. 

Psalm  CIV. 

94 


Lyrics  from  the  Psalter 


Young  lions  in  their  hunger  roar, 
As  though  they  would  His  care  implore 
Who  gives  them  all  their  meat. 

The  sun  appears;  they  hide  away, 
And  down  to  rest  themselves  they  lay, 

Each  in  his  secret  den. 
Then  man  unto  his  labor  goes, 
To  toil  until  the  day  shall  close, 

And  evening  come  again. 

PART  IV. 

vv.  24-35. 

How  manifold  beyond  our  thought 

The  works  that  Thou,  O  Lord,  hast  wrought 

In  wisdom  all  divine! 
Thy  riches  fill  the  earth  below, 
In  circling  suns  and  stars  they  glow, 

And  in  the  deep  they  shine. 

There  is  the  sea,  so  great  and  wide, 
Wherein  in  countless  number  hide   , 

Thy  creatures  small  and  great; 
There  move  the  ships  the  waves  athwart, 
Therein  the  ocean-monsters  sport, 

And  all  upon  Thee  wait. 

Yea,  all  as  at  Thy  table  stand. 
Till  Thou  dost  open  wide  Thy  hand, 

To  give  them  timely  food; 
What  Thou  dost  give  they  gather  up. 
And  from  Thine  overflowing  cup 

Are  satisfied  with  good. 

Psalm  CIV. 

95 


Lyrics  from  the  Psalter 


When  Thou  dost  turn  Thy  face  away, 
Their  sun  is  gone;  no  cheering  ray 

Their  troubled  hearts  discern. 
And  when  their  breath  Thou  dost  recall, 
In  death's  embrace  they  helpless  fall, 

And  to  their  dust  return. 

But  when  Thou  sendest  from  above 
Thy  Spirit,  like  the  brooding  dove 

O'er  all  the  waters'  face, 
Again,  as  at  creation's  birth, 
They  are  renewed,  and  all  the  earth  J 

Is  crowned  with  wondrous  grace.  | 

Eternal  let  Thy  glory  be,  j 

O  Maker  of  the  earth  and  sea! 

With  joy  Thy  works  behold. 
Earth  trembles  'neath  Thy  piercing  gaze, 
Thy  touch  sets  all  the  hills  ablaze, 

As  Sinai  flamed  of  old. 

To  Thee,  O  Lord,  my  whole  life  long. 
Yea,  to  my  God,  a  gladsome  song 

With  harp  and  voice  I'll  sing; 
And  be  my  meditation  sweet 
To  Thee,  Who  art  my  joy  complete. 

My  Maker,  Saviour,  King. 

Consumed  as  dross  from  precious  ore 
The  wicked  soon  shall  be  no  more, 

And  Eden  come  again. 
Then  bless  the  Lord,  O  thou  my  soul! 
And  all  ye  saints,  while  ages  roll. 

Praise  ye  the  Lord!     Amen. 

Psalm  CIV. 

96 


Lyrics  from  the  Psalter 


CVII. 

vv.  23-32. 

They  that  go  forth  to  toil  upon  the  deep, 
And  'mid  great  waters  weary  vigil  keep, 
These  see  Jehovah's  works  of  power  untold; 
His  mighty  wonders  in  the  deep  behold. 

He  speaks  the  word,  and  stormy  winds  arise, 
Lifting  His  waves  as  to  the  very  skies; 
To  heaven  they  mount,  again  to  depths  go  down. 
Hearts  melt  with  trouble  at  the  surges'  frown. 

Tossed  by  the  billows,  reeling  to  and  fro, 
Their  hopes  all  sink  as  in  the  depths  below; 
Then  to  the  Lord  they  cry  in  humble  prayer, 
And  He  delivers  them  from  deep  despair. 

Again  He  speaks,  and  at  His  high  behest 
The  storm  is  calm,  the  waves  are  hushed  to  rest: 
Then  are  they  glad,  as  now  all  tumults  cease. 
And  thus  He  brings  them  to  the  port  of  peace. 

O  then  let  such  give  praise,  O  Lord,  to  Thee, 
For  goodness,  broader,  deeper  than  the  sea; 
Let  them  exalt  Thee,  where  Thy  people  meet. 
And  all  Thy  wondrous  works  with  praise  repeat. 


cxn. 

Jehovah  praise!     How  blest  the  man 

Who  feareth  Thee,  O  Lord, 
Whose  heart  with  great  delight  dost  scan 

The  precepts  of  Thy  Word. 

Psalms  CVII.  and  CXII. 

97 


Lyrics  from  the  Psalter 


On  earth  his  seed  shall  mighty  be; 
The  upright  race  shall  blessing  see. 


Both  wealth  and  riches  from  Thy  hand 

Within  his  house  appear; 
His  righteousness  doth  stedfast  stand, 

Unchanged  from  year  to  year. 
To  all  the  upright  in  Thy  sight 
In  darkness  there  ariseth  light. 


Kind  and  compassionate  is  he, 

A  righteous,  faithful  friend ; 
'Tis  well  with  him  who  graciously 

Doth  deal  and  freely  lend. 
His  justice,  sought  by  none  in  vain, 
Shall  his  own  righteous  cause  maintain. 


Unmoved  he  stands,  whate'er  betide; 

And  when  this  life  is  passed, 
His  memory  shall  long  abide, 

A  blessing  to  the  last. 
Of  evil  tidings  ne'er  afraid, 
His  heart  is  on  Jehovah  stayed. 


He  hath  dispersed  with  liberal  hand, 

And  given  to  the  poor: 
His  righteousness  doth  stedfast  stand, 

And  ever  shall  endure. 
Exalted  highly.  Lord,  shall  be 
The  blessed  man  who  feareth  Thee. 

Psalm  CXII. 

98 


Lyrics  from  the  Psalter 


CXIII. 

Ye  servants  of  the  Lord,  our  King, 
With  every  song  that  praise  can  bring 

His  blessed  name  adore. 
From  early  dawn  to  evening  dim, 
His  name  be  praised  with  ceaseless  hymn, 

Henceforth  for  evermore. 


Above  all  nations  He  is  high. 
Above  all  hosts  that  fill  the  sky 

His  glory  bright  appears. 
Who,  like  the  Lord  our  God,  is  known, 
The  Lord,  Who  sitteth  on  His  throne 

Above  the  starry  spheres? 


But  yet  He  humbly  condescends, 

And  down  to  heaven  and  earth  He  bends 

An  all-discerning  eye. 
The  poor  and  needy  in  distress 
He  lifts  from  dust  and  wretchedness, 

To  sit  with  princes  high. 


The  silent  home  His  love  discerns. 
And  to  the  heart  that  lonely  yearns 

He  gives  the  mother's  joy. 
Ye  servants  of  the  Lord,  our  King, 
With  every  song  that  praise  can  bring 

Your  heart  and  voice  employ. 

Psalm  CXIII. 

99 


Lyrics  from  the  Psalter 


CXIV. 

When  Israel,  through  the  riven  sea, 
From  Egypt  came,  as  Miriam  sung — 

And  Jacob's  house,  from  bondage  free, 

Went  forth  from  people  strange  of  tongue; 

Then  Judah  was  His  holy  place; 

His  kingdom  Israel's  chosen  race. 


The  sea  beheld  the  host  draw  near, 
And  from  their  pathway  quickly  fled: 

And  Jordan's  waters  in  their  fear 

Turned  back  and  left  their  stony  bed: 

The  trembling  mountains  leaped  like  rams, 

The  little  hills  like  sportive  lambs. 


What  aileth  thee,  O  mighty  sea? 

Whom  do  thy  shrinking  waves  discern? 
O  Jordan,  wherefore  dost  thou  flee 

And  all  thy  waters  backward  turn? 
Ye  mountains,  that  ye  leap  like  rams, 
Ye  little  hills,  like  sportive  lambs? 


Tremble,  O  earth,  before  the  Lord, 

The  mighty  God  of  Jacob  fear: 
Let  all  things  tremble  at  His  word 

Who  doth  in  majesty  appear: 
He  made  the  rock  a  water-pool. 
The  flint  to  gush  with  fountains  cool. 

Psalm  CXIV. 


i 


Lyrics  from  the  Psalter 


CXV. 

Not  unto  us,  not  unto  us, 
To  whom  belongeth  only  shame, 

But  for  Thy  truth  and  mercy's  sake, 
O  Lord,  give  glory  to  Thy  name. 

O  wherefore  should  the  nations  say, 
"Where  is  their  God?  pray  can  they  tell?" 

Our  God  is  in  the  heavens  throned. 
And  all  hath  done  as  pleased  Him  well. 

Silver  and  gold  their  idols  are; 

The  work  of  men,  like  men  they  seem; 
But  naught  they  see,  or  hear,  or  do, 

And  all  their  power  is  but  a  dream. 

And  like  their  idols  shall  they  be 

Who  make  them,  or  their  worship  yield. 

Trust  thou,  O  Israel,  in  the  Lord; 
He  is  their  help  and  He  their  shield. 

O  house  of  Aaron,  trust  the  Lord: 
He  is  their  help  and  He  their  shield. 

All  ye  that  fear  Him,  trust  the  Lord: 
He  is  their  help  and  He  their  shield. 

Mindful  of  us  the  Lord  hath  been, 
And  He  will  bless  us  when  we  call; 

The  house  of  Aaron  He  will  bless, 
And  them  that  fear  Him,  great  and  small. 

Psalm  CXV. 


Lyrics  from  the  Psalter 


The  Lord  increase  you  more  and  more; 

You  and  your  children  multiply: 
Blessed  indeed  are  ye  of  Him, 

Creator  of  the  earth  and  sky. 

The  heavens  are  evermore  the  Lord's  : 
His  own  abode.  His  royal  seat; 

But  earth  on  men  He  hath  bestowed, 
And  made  it  for  their  dwelling  meet. 

The  voiceless  dead  praise  not  the  Lord; 

The  silent  grave  no  song  can  raise: 
But  we  will  bless  Him  evermore; 

Praise  ye  the  Lord,  Jehovah  praise! 


CXVI. 

vv.  I-II. 

I  love  the  Lord,  Who  bowed  His  ear 
To  hear  my  supplicating  voice: 

And  while  I  live,  with  heart  sincere 
On  Him  I'll  call,  in  Him  rejoice. 

The  cords  of  death  enclosed  me  round; 

The  pains  of  hell  my  soul  enthralled; 
Trouble  and  grief  alone  I  found; 

Then  on  Jehovah's  name  I  called — 

"Deliver  me  from  sin  abhorred, 
O  spare  my  soul  and  lift  Thy  rod ;" 

Most  gracious,  righteous,  is  the  Lord; 
Yea,  ever  merciful  our  God. 

Psalms  CXV.  and  CXVI. 


Lyrics  from  the  Psalter 


He  saves  the  simple  and  oppressed; 

I  was  brought  low;  He  rescued  me. 
Return,  my  soul,  unto  thy  rest. 

For  He  hath  kindly  dealt  with  thee. 

Since  He  hath  saved  from  death  and  tears, 
And  kept  my  faltering  feet  aright, 

I'll  walk  before  Him  freed  from  fears 
In  the  broad  land  of  life  and  light. 


vv.  12-19. 

With  what  return  of  lofty  praise 
Shall  I  Jehovah's  love  proclaim? 

Salvation's  cup  on  high  I'll  raise. 
And  call,  rejoicing,  on  His  name. 

My  vows  to  Him  in  times  of  fear 
Among  His  saints  will  I  fulfil; 

The  life  they  live  to  Him  is  dear. 
The  death  they  die  more  precious  still. 


Lord,  I'm  Thy  servant.  Thine,  indeed; 

Born  of  Thy  handmaid,  I  am  Thine; 
Thou  hast  my  soul  from  bondage  freed, 

And  I  will  praise  Thy  name  divine. 

Before  the  saints  my  vows  I'll  pay. 
And  in  God's  house  His  praise  record; 

In  thee,  O  Zion,  will  I  say, 

Praise  ye  the  Lord,  O  praise  the  Lord! 

Psalm  CXVI. 

103 


Lyrics  from  the  Psalter 


CXVII. 

Praise  the  Lord  with  exultation, 
Every  people,  every  nation; 
Laud  Him  for  His  great  salvation; 
Praise,  O  praise  the  Lord! 

Mighty,  but  most  condescending. 
Is  His  mercy  o'er  us  bending; 
Truth  is  His  that  hath  no  ending, 
Praise,  O  praise  the  Lord! 

To  the  Father  praises  render. 
Praise  the  Son  and  Spirit  tender, 
Triune  God,  Eternal  Splendor, 
Praise  the  Lord!     Amen! 


CXVHL 

vv.  1-18. 

Jehovah  is  good,  O  give  thanks  to  His  name. 
His  mercy  endureth  forever  the  same; 
Let  Zion,  with  all  them  that  fear  Him,  now  say — 
His  mercy  endureth  for  aye  and  for  aye. 

In  anguish  I  called  on  the  God  of  all  grace ; 
He  answered  and  set  me  within  a  large  place; 
With  Him  on  my  side  I  shall  not  be  afraid. 
For  what  can  man  do,  when  the  Lord  is  mine  aid? 

Among  them  that  help  me  the  Lord  doth  appear, 
And  therefore  I  look  on  my  foes  without  fear; 

Psalms  CXVII.  and  CXVIIL 

104 


Lyrics  from  the  Psalter 


'Tis  better  to  trust  in  the  Lord  to  provide, 
Than  ever  in  man  or  in  princes  confide. 

Though  nations  may  gather  in  wrathful  array, 
Yet  in  His  great  name  I  will  sweep  them  away ; 
Though  nations  like  bees  may  surround  and  assail, 
I  yet  in  His  name  will  against  them  prevail. 

The  Lord  is  my  strength  and  my  song  in  the  night; 
Yea,  He  is  my  Saviour,  in  Whom  I  delight ; 
The  voice  of  rejoicing,  salvation's  glad  song, 
Is  heard  in  the  tents  of  the  saints'  happy  throng. 

His  right  hand  is  valiant,  but  tender  to  spare; 
I  die  not,  but  live,  all  His  works  to  declare. 
Although  He  in  wisdom  hath  chastened  me  sore. 
Yet  not  unto  death  hath  He  given  me  o'er. 

vv.  19-29. 

The  portals  of  righteousness  open  to  me; 
I'll  enter,  O  Lord,  to  give  thanks  unto  Thee — 
This  gate  of  the  Lord,  where  in  festal  array 
The  righteous  shall  enter  their  worship  to  pay. 

To  Thee  I'll  give  thanks.  Who  hast  answered  my  call, 
And  art  my  salvation,  my  all  and  in  all. 
The  stone  which  the  builders  rejected  with  scorn 
Doth  now,  as  the  head-stone,  the  corner  adorn. 

O  this  is  Thy  doing.  Who  humblest  the  wise ; 
Most  wondrous  it  is  in  the  sight  of  our  eyes. 
And  this  is  the  day  Thou  madest  of  old; 
And  we  will  rejoice  its  glad  light  to  behold. 

Psalm  CXVIII. 

105 


Lyrics  from  the  Psalter 


Save  now,  we  beseech  Thee;  Jehovah  attend; 
Now  Lord,  we  beseech  Thee,  prosperity  send. 
O  blessed  be  He  that  doth  come  in  Thy  name, 
Thy  Zion  doth  bless  Him  with  joyful  acclaim. 

Jehovah  is  God,  He  enlighteneth  the  blind; 
Now  unto  His  altar  the  sacrifice  bind. 
Yea,  Thou  art  my  God  Whom  I'll  praise  and  adore, 
And  as  my  own  God  will  exalt  evermore. 

Jehovah  is  good ;  O  give  thanks  to  His  name ! 
His  mercy  endureth  forever  the  same; 
Let  Zion  and  all  her  glad  children  now  say — 
His  mercy  endureth  for  aye  and  for  aye. 


CXIX. 

vv.  1-8. 

How  blest  and  happy  they 

Who  walk  the  perfect  way. 
And  never  from  Thy  law  depart! 

Yea,  blest  are  they  indeed 

Who  all  Thy  precepts  heed, 
And  seek  Thee,  Lord,  with  all  their  heart. 

Thou  hast  commanded,  Lord, 
That  we  observe  Thy  word. 

And  keep  Thy  precepts  there  proclaimed. 
O  that  my  daily  ways 
Were  fixed  to  live  Thy  praise; 

Then  should  I  never  be  ashamed. 

Psalms  CXVIII.  and  CXIX. 

1 06 


Lyrics  from  the  Psalter 


I  will  give  thanks  to  Thee, 
With  heart  upright  and  free, 

When  I  Thy  righteous  judgments  learn. 
Thy  statutes  I'll  observe, 
Nor  from  them  ever  swerve ; 

Ne'er,  Lord,  from  me  in  anger  turn. 

vv.  169-176. 

Now  let  my  supplicating  cry 
Come  near  before  Thee,  O  my  Lord. 

Give  wisdom  and  deliver  me, 
According  to  Thy  faithful  word. 

Since  Thou  Thy  statutes  teachest  me, 
O  let  my  lips  Thy  praise  confess. 

Yea,  of  Thy  word  my  tongue  would  sing, 
For  Thy  commands  are  righteousness. 

Be  ready  with  Thy  hand  to  help. 

Because  Thy  precepts  are  my  choice. 

I've  longed  for  Thy  salvation,  Lord, 
And  in  Thy  holy  law  rejoice. 

0  let  me  live,  and  Thee  I'll  praise; 
And  let  Thy  judgments  help  me  yet. 

A  straying  sheep,  Thy  servant  seek, 
For  Thy  commands  I  ne'er  forget. 

CXXL 

1  to  the  hills  will  lift  mine  eyes ; 
O  whence  shall  come  mine  aid? 

My  help  is  from  the  Lord  alone, 
Who  heaven  and  earth  hath  made. 

Psalms  CXIX.  and  CXXL 

107 


Lyrics  from  the  Psalter 


He  will  not  let  thy  foot  be  moved; 

Thy  keeper  will  not  sleep; 
No  sleep,  no  slumber  will  He  take 

Who  doth  His  Israel  keep. 

Thy  faithful  keeper  is  the  Lord, 

Thy  shade  upon  thy  right. 
The  sun  shall  smite  thee  not  by  day, 

Nor  yet  the  moon  by  night. 

The  Lord  shall  keep  thee  from  all  ill, 

Will  keep  thy  soul  alway; 
Will  keep  thy  going  out  and  in 

From  this  time  forth  for  aye. 


CXXL 

Up  to  the  hills  I  lift  mine  eyes ; 

O  whence  shall  come  mine  aid? 
My  help  doth  from  the  Lord  arise, 
The  Lord  Who  built  the  earth  and  skies, 

And  all  their  host  hath  made. 

He  will  not  let  thy  footsteps  slide. 

But  watchful  vigil  keep; 
Unmoved  His  Israel  shall  abide, 
Since  He,  her  keeper  by  her  side, 

Shall  slumber  not  nor  sleep. 

The  Lord  it  is  Who  keeps  thy  way, 

And  well  He  shades  thy  head; 
No  scorching  sun  can  smite  by  day, 
Nor  moon  by  night  with  hurtful  ray 
Invade  thy  curtained  bed. 

Psalm  CXXL 

io8 


i 


Lyrics  from  the  Psalter 


He  keeps  thee  from  all  evil's  might, 

And  daily  watches  o'er 
Thy  going  out  at  dawn  of  light, 
Thy  coming  in  at  fall  of  night. 

Now  and  for  evermore. 


CXXII. 

How  glad  was  I  to  hear  them  say — 
Come,  let  us  seek,  this  holy  day, 

Jehovah's  House  of  prayer. 
Jerusalem,  within  thy  gate 
Our  feet  are  standing;  here  we  wait 

Within  thy  courts  so  fair. 

Thou,  O  Jerusalem,  our  song, 
Art  builded  as  a  city  strong. 

That  all  compact  doth  stand! 
There  come  the  people  of  the  Lord 
To  praise  His  name  with  one  accord, 

As  Israel  had  command. 

For  there  set  up  within  the  gate 

The  thrones  of  judgment  stand  in  state, 

The  thrones  of  David's  line. 
O  pray  that  Zion  peace  may  see, 
For  they  shall  ever  prospered  be 

Who  love  thy  courts  divine. 

Peace  be  within  thine  hallowed  walls! 
And  ever  in  thy  palace  halls 
Be  there  prosperity! 

Psalms  CXXI.  and  CXXII. 

109 


Lyrics  from  the  Psalter 


For  brethren  who  thy  courts  have  trod, 
And  for  the  Lord's  own  house,  our  God, 
I'll  seek  all  good  for  thee. 


CXXII. 

How  glad  was  I  to  hear  them  say, 
Come  let  us  go  this  holy  day 

And  in  God's  house  appear. 
And  now  Thy  temple  gates  we  greet. 
And  enter  in  with  eager  feet, 

Jerusalem  most  dear! 

Jerusalem,  our  pride  and  song. 
Is  builded  as  a  city  strong, 

Compact  in  unity. 
And  there  the  Lord's  own  people  meet 
To  bless  His  name  for  joys  complete, 

Jerusalem,  in  thee. 

For  there,  by  God's  supreme  command. 
The  stately  thrones  of  judgment  stand. 

The  thrones  of  David's  line. 
Of  thee,  O  city  of  the  King, 
The  joy  of  all  the  earth  we  sing, 

Jerusalem  divine! 

Forever  pray  for  Zion's  peace; 
For  greatly  shall  their  joy  increase 

Who  love  and  for  her  care. 
May  peace  abide  within  thy  walls. 
Rejoicing  in  thy  palace  halls, 

Jerusalem  the  fair! 

Psalm  CXXII. 

no 


Lyrics  from  the  Psalter 


And  still  again  this  prayer  I  make 
For  brethren  and  companions'  sake, 

Let  peace  within  thee  rest. 
And  for  Christ's  Church  and  brotherhood, 
I  evermore  will  seek  thy  good, 

Jerusalem'  the  blest ! 


CXXIV. 

Had  it  not  been  the  Lord,  let  Israel  say — 
Had  it  not  been  the  Lord,  Who  day  by  day 
Was  on  our  side  when  men  against  us  rose, 
We  had  been  swallowed  up  alive  by  foes. 


Yea,  we  had  perished,  when  their  wrath  became 
Kindled  against  us,  a  devouring  flame; 
Whelmed  had  we  been  by  waters  uncontrolled; 
Yea,  the  proud  waters  would  have  o'er  us  rolled. 


But  blessed  be  the  Lord,  our  helper  then. 
Who  gave  us  not  a  prey  to  wrathful  men. 
Our  soul  is  like  a  captive  bird  set  free; 
Broken  the  snare,  and  we  at  liberty. 


Our  help  is  therefore  in  the  Lord  alone 

Who  built  the  heavens  and  laid  earth's  corner-stone. 

Secure  are  they  who  in  the  Lord  confide, 

For  He  is  ever  on  His  people's  side. 

Psalms  CXXII.  and  CXXIV. 

Ill 


Lyrics  from  the  Psalter 


cxxv. 

They  who  in  the  Lord  confiding, 
Put  their  trust  in  Him  alone, 

As  Mount  Zion,  firm  abiding, 
Never  shall  be  overthrown. 

As  thy  hills,  O  holy  city, 
Stand  as  sentinels  around, 

So  Jehovah's  mighty  pity 
Is  about  His  people  found. 

Well  their  lot  shall  be  protected 
From  the  rod  the  wicked  wield. 

Lest,  aweary  and  dejected, 

They  at  last  to  sin  should  yield. 

O  Jehovah,  let  Thy  blessing 

Goodness  for  the  good  provide: 

And  on  Israel,  Thee  confessing, 
Let  abundant  peace  abide! 


CXXVL 

When  Zion,  by  the  Lord  redeemed. 
Was  brought  again  from  exile  long, 

Awhile  were  we  hke  them  that  dreamed, 
But  soon  were  filled  with  mirth  and  song. 

Among  the  nations  said  they  then — 

"For  them  the  Lord  hath  done  great  things." 

Great  things  indeed  for  us  again 
The  Lord  hath  done,  whence  gladness  springs. 

Psalms  CXXV.  and  CXXVL 

112 


Lyrics  from  the  Psalter 


Lord,  turn  again  our  captive  state, 
As  southern  streams  revive  the  plain; 

Then  they  that  sow  in  tears,  and  wait, 
With  joy  shall  reap  the  golden  grain. 

Though  going  on  his  way  with  tears, 

Though  sowing  precious  seed,  he  grieves, 

He  shall,  when  harvest  day  appears, 
Return  with  joy  and  bring  his  sheaves. 


CXXVII. 

Except  the  Lord  to  build  the  house  shall  deign, 
All  they  who  build  it  labor  but  in  vain; 
Except  the  Lord  the  city  keep  from  harm, 
The  watchmen  wake  in  vain  to  give  alarm. 

'Tis  all  in  vain  that  ye  should  early  rise. 
And  late  give  slumber  to  your  weary  eyes. 
Should  eat  the  bread  of  toil,  and  vigil  keep; 
He  surely  gives  to  His  beloved  sleep. 

A  heritage  are  children  from  the  Lord: 
In  them  the  mother  hath  her  great  reward. 
Like  arrows  in  a  mighty  warrior's  hand. 
Children  of  youth  about  their  parents  stand. 

O  happy,  happy  is  the  man  who  sees 
His  quiver  full  of  arrows  such  as  these; 
They  shall  not  be  ashamed  before  the  great, 
Nor  when  they  speak  with  foes  within  the  gate. 

Psalms  CXXVI.  and  CXXVII. 

113 


Lyrics  from  the  Psalter 


CXXVIII. 

What  blessings  crown  their  happy  days 
Who  fear  the  Lord  most  high, 

Who  walk  obedient  in  His  ways, 
Beneath  His  watchful  eye! 

Thus  of  thy  labor  shalt  thou  eat, 
Thy  fields  from  blight  be  free; 

Thy  happiness  be  made  complete, 
And  all  be  well  with  thee. 

Within  thy  home's  secure  retreat, 
Thy  wife,  by  love  enshrined, 

Shall  be  a  vine  of  fruitage  sweet 
About  thy  life  entwined. 

As  round  the  goodly  olive  stand 

Its  shoots  of  fairest  green, 
So  shall  thy  happy  children  band 

Around  thy  board  be  seen. 

Behold,  thus  shall  the  man  be  blest, 
Who  fears  the  Lord  in  truth — 

At  home,  abroad,  in  toil,  at  rest. 
Alike  in  age  and  youth. 

The  Lord  thus  bless  and  gladden  thee 
From  out  His  house  of  praise; 

And  Zion's  welfare  let  thee  see 
Through  all  thy  pilgrim  days. 

Psalm  CXXVIII. 

114 


Lyrics  from  the  Psalter 


Yea,  thou  shalt  see  with  thankfulness 
Thine  own  and  her  increase; 

Thy  children's  children  shalt  thou  bless, 
On  Israel  breathe  thy  peace! 


CXXIX. 

Oft  from  my  youth  have  they  afflicted  me — 
Let  Israel  say — from  trouble  now  set  free; 
Oft  from  my  youth  they  troubled  and  assailed; 
Yet  have  they  not  against  me  quite  prevailed. 

The  plowers  plowed  upon  my  back  made  bare, 
And  long  they  made  their  cruel  furrows  there. 
The  Lord  is  righteous,  and  hath  cut  at  last 
The  wicked's  cords  that  were  around  me  cast. 

Let  all  be  shamed  and  backward  made  to  turn. 
Whose  hearts  with  hatred  of  Thy  Zion  burn; 
Yea,  let  them  be  as  grass  on  house-tops  grown, 
Fading  and  withered  ere  matured  and  mown. 

Wherewith  no  joyful  reaper  fills  his  hands; 
None  binding  sheaves  with  loaded  bosom  stands; 
"Jehovah  bless  thee" — saith  no  passer-by ; 
"We  bless  you  in  His  name" — none  make  reply. 

cxxx. 

From  out  the  depths  I  cry  to  thee,  O  Lord. 

My  prayer,  Lord,  hear. 
Yea,  to  my  supplicating  voice  accord 

Attentive  ear. 

Psalms  CXXVIIL,  CXXIX.  and  CXXX. 

115 


Lyrics  from  the  Psalter 


If  Thou,  O  Lord,  iniquity  shouldst  mark, 
Who,  who,  shall  stand  before  the  record  dark? 

But  full  forgiveness,  that  Thou  mayest  be  feared. 

There  is  with  Thee. 
I  for  Jehovah  wait;  His  word  revered 

Gives  hope  to  me. 
Yea,  for  the  Lord  my  soul  doth  look  and  yearn, 
More  than  the  watchmen  look  for  morn's  return. 

Thy  hope,  O  Israel,  in  Jehovah  be 

Forevermore. 
With  Him  are  mercy  and  redemption  free 

In  plenteous  store. 
And  He  will  bring  His  Israel's  chosen  race 
Redeemed  from  all  iniquity  by  grace. 


CXXXL 

Lord,  I  would  not  haughty  be; 

Nor,  with  proud  uplifted  eyes. 
Would  I  look  toward  heaven  and  Thee, 

Or  Thy  little  ones  despise. 

Not  in  matters  great  and  high. 

All  too  wonderful  for  me — 
Do  I  vainly  seek  to  pry; 

Secret  things  I  leave  with  Thee. 

As  a  child  by  mother  stilled, 

I  have  hushed  my  troubled  soul; 

Tranquil  now,  no  more  self-willed, 
Yield  I,  Lord,  to  Thy  control. 

Psalms  CXXX.  and  CXXXI. 

ii6 


Lyrics  from  the  Psalter 


Israel,  hope  thou  in  the  Lord, 
From  henceforth  forevermore ; 

He  will  needful  grace  afford. 
Light  upon  thy  path  will  pour. 


CXXXIIL 

Behold,  how  pleasant  and  how  good 

For  brethren  to  agree, 
And,  in  the  bond  of  brotherhood, 

To  dwell  in  unity. 

'Tis  like  the  oil  on  Aaron  shed 

In  consecrating  rite, 
A  holy  unction  on  the  head, 

A  perfume  of  delight. 

As  Hermon's  dew  on  Zion's  hills 
Makes  glad  the  fruitful  field, 

So  they,  on  whom  this  love  distils, 
Rich  fruits  of  grace  will  yield. 

But  Zion,  all  excelling  stands 
With  this  her  richer  store; 

The  Lord  His  blessing  there  commands, 
E'en  life  for  evermore. 


CXXXIV. 

Behold,  and  bless  the  Lord, 

All  ye  His  servants,  bless! 
Ye  who  by  night  stand  in  His  house, 

His  house  of  holiness. 

Psalms  CXXXL,  CXXXIIL  and  CXXXIV. 

"7 


Lyrics  from  the  Psalter 


Within  His  holy  place 

Lift  up  your  hands  in  prayer; 

Yea,  lift  them  up  in  holiness, 
And  bless  Jehovah  there. 

The  Lord  from  Zion's  courts 

Thee  with  His  blessing  crown; 
Yea,  He  Who  heaven  and  earth  hath  made, 
On  Thee  send  blessing  down. 


cxxxv. 

PART  I. 

Praise  ye  Jehovah!     Praise  His  name, 

O  ye  His  servants'  happy  band ! 
That  He  is  good,  with  praise  proclaim, 
All  ye  who  in  His  temple  stand! 
For  it  is  pleasant  and  most  meet 
To  praise  His  name  with  music  sweet. 

He  chose  His  Israel  long  ago, 

And  as  His  special  treasure  owned. 
That  He  alone  is  great,  I  know; 

Above  all  gods  our  Lord  is  throned. 
In  heaven  and  earth,  in  deeps  and  seas, 
He  doeth  all  as  Him  doth  please. 

The  vapors  from  the  earth's  far  end 

He  gathereth  up  from  sea  and  main; 
He  maketh  them  to  heaven  ascend; 
He  causeth  lightnings  for  the  rain. 
He  from  His  treasuries  bringeth  out 
The  winds  that  in  the  tempests  shout. 

Psalms  CXXXIV.  and  CXXXV. 

ii8 


Lyrics  from  the  Psalter 


Thy  name,  O  Lord,  let  saints  record, 

Doth  to  eternity  endure; 
Through  all  the  generations,  Lord, 
Doth  Thy  memorial  stand  secure. 
The  Lord  will  judge  His  saints  aright, 
And  in  repenting  love  delight. 

The  nations  as  their  gods  esteem 

The  gold  and  silver  they  have  wrought; 
Made  by  men's  hands,  like  men  they  seem, 
But  are  but  vanity  and  naught. 
And  like  them  shall  their  makers  be, 
And  all  who  trust  or  bow  the  knee. 

O  house  of  Israel,  bless  the  Lord  ! 
O  all  ye  tribes.  His  praises  tell ! 
All  ye  that  fear  Him,  bless  the  Lord! 
From  Zion  let  His  praises  swell. 
Praise  ye  the  Lord!  and  still  again, 
Praise  ye  the  Lord!     Amen,  Amen. 


CXXXVL 

Give  thanks  unto  the  God  of  gods. 

The  Lord  of  lords  supreme; 
Who  only  doeth  wondrous  things, 

His  peopk  to  redeem. 

Chorus:    O  give  ye  thanks  unto  the  Lord, 
For  He  is  ever  good; 
His     mercy     doth     unchanging 
stand, 
As  it  hath  ever  stood. 

Psalms  CXXXV.  and  CXXXVL 

119 


Lyrics  from  the  Psalter 


To  Him  Who  in  His  wisdom  made 
The  heavens  in  all  their  grace; 

To  Him  Who  spread  the  earth  abroad 
Above  the  waters'  face. 

Chorus. 

Give  thanks  to  Him  Who  made  great  lights ; 

The  sun  to  rule  by  day; 
The  moon  and  stars  to  rule  by  night, 

While  all  His  will  obey. 

Chorus. 

To  Him  Who  Egypt's  first-born  smote, 
While  mourning  filled  the  land; 

And  brought  His  captive  people  out 
With  strong  and  outstretched  hand. 

Chorus. 

To  Him  Who  parted  the  Red  Sea, 

And  made  His  people  go 
In  safety  through  divided  waves, 

But  overthrew  their  foe. 

Chorus. 

To  Him  Who  through  the  wilderness 

His  wandering  Israel  led. 
And  sm'ote  the  great  and  mighty  kings 

That  were  His  people's  dread. 

Chorus. 

To  Him  Who,  as  a  heritage, 

Their  goodly  land  bestowed 
Upon  His  servant,  Israel's  race, 

As  to  the  fathers  showed. 

Chorus. 

Psalm  CXXXVI. 


Lyrics  from  the  Psalter 


To  Him  Who,  in  our  low  estate, 

Remembered  us  of  old; 
And  hath  redeemed  us  from  our  foes, 

In  mercy  manifold. 

Chorus 

To  Him  Who  daily  to  all  flesh 

Doth  needful  food  bestow. 
Yea,  to  the  God  of  heaven  and  earth 

Let  ceaseless  praises  flow. 

Chorus. 


CXXXVIL 

By  Babel's  river-side.  We  sat  in  tears; 
Remembering  Zion's  pride  In  former  years; 
While  on  the  weeping  willows  there  were  hung 
The  harps  our  grief  had  silenced  and  unstrung. 

For  they  who  led  us  there,  A  captive  throng, 
Required  that  we  prepare  For  them  a  song : 
Yea,  our  tormentors  asked  for  mirth  and  praise; 
Required  a  song  of  Zion's  happy  days. 

But  how  shall  we  thus  sing.  At  their  command, 
Songs  of  the  Lord,  our  King,  In  this  strange  land? 
O  Zion,  if  I  e'er  forget  thy  woe, 
My  good  right  hand  its  skill  no  longer  know. 

Yea,  let  my  tongue,  I  pray,  All  silent  be ; 
If  I  do  not  alway  Remember  thee : 
If  I  prefer  not  thee,  though  in  thy  grief, 
Above  all  other  joys  my  very  chief. 

Psalms  CXXXVI.  and  CXXXVIL 


Lyrics  from  the  Psalter 


CXXXVII. 
vv.  1-6. 

By  Babel's  quiet  river-side 
We  exiles  sat  and  mused  and  wept; 

While  o'er  our  sinking  hearts  the  tide 
Of  memories  of  loved  Zion  swept. 

On  weeping  willows,  drooping  low, 
Our  silent  harps  of  joy  we  hung; 

Their  strings  would  break,  attuned  to  woe, 
Or  break  the  hearts  whose  grief  they  sung. 

For  there  our  captors  asked  for  songs; 

Tormenting,  asked  for  gladsome  praise; 
Required  the  songs  that  happy  throngs 

Were  wont  on  Zion's  hill  to  raise. 

But  how,  those  songs,  in  foreign  land, 
Shall  we,  forgetting  Zion,  sing? 

If  faithless  thus,  let  this  right  hand 
Forget  its  skill  with  tuneful  string. 

Yea,  song  and  speech  be  all  forgot, 

If  I  do  not  remember  thee; 
If  thou,  Jerusalem,  art  not 

Above  all  other  joys  to  me. 


CXXXIX. 


vv.   I-I2. 


O  Lord,  Thou  hast  searched  me,  and  from  Thy  far 

throne 
My  sitting,  my  rising,  my  thoughts  Thou  hast  known: 

Psalms  CXXXVII.  and  CXXXIX. 

122 


Lyrics  from  the  Psalter 


Thou  searchest  my  pathway,  my  couch  Thou  dost  see, 
And  all  of  my  ways  are  familiar  to  Thee. 

Each  word  I  would  speak  Thou  dost  well  understand; 
Thou  art  all  around  me,  and  on  me  Thine  hand: 
Such  wonderful  knowledge  I  cannot  attain, 
Too  lofty  its  height  for  a  mortal  to  gain. 

0  where  shall  I  go  from  Thy  Spirit  of  might? 

And  whither  shall  I  from  Thy  presence  take  flight? 
Alike  in  the  heavens  or  in  deeps  of  despair 

1  ne'er  can  escape  Thee,  for  lo — Thou  art  there. 

Yea,  if  on  the  wings  of  the  morning  I  flee, 

And  dwell  in  the  uttermost  parts  of  the  sea; 

Thy  hand  shall  still  lead  me  and  mark  out  my  path, 

Thy  right  hand  uphold  me,  or  smite  me  in  wrath. 

Or  if  I  in  darkness  would  hide  from  Thy  sight. 
And  even  the  noon-day  could  turn  into  night; 
Not  then  could  I  hide  from  Thine  eye's  piercing  ray, 
For  night  would  be  noon,  and  the  darkness  as  day. 


CXLIV. 

PART  I. 

O  blessed  be  the  Lord,  my  Rock, 
Who  helps  me  meet  the  battle's  shock; 

And  bows  my  foes  to  dust. 
My  fortress  firm,  my  mercy  sweet, 
My  strong  high  tower,  my  shield  complete. 

My  Saviour  Whom  I  trust ! 

Psalms  CXXXIX.  and  CXLIV. 

123 


Lyrics  from  the  Psalter 


Lord,  what  is  man  compared  with  Thee  ? 
What  can  a  son  of  mortal  be 

That  Thou  of  him  shouldst  think? 
For  man  is  like  a  breath,  a  sigh; 
His  days  as  shadows  quickly  fly, 

And  soon  in  darkness  sink. 

Lord,  bow  Thy  heavens,  in  pomp  come  down; 
Thy  touch  upon  the  mountains'  crown 

Shall  make  them  smoke  and  flame. 
Flash  forth  Thy  lightnings'  dazzling  light, 
Send  out  Thine  arrows  swift  to  smite, 

Put  all  Thy  foes  to  shame. 

But  from  Thy  dwelling  place  above 
Stretch  forth  Thy  mighty  hand  of  love 

And  rescue  me,  I  pray. 
From  whelming  waves  that  near  me  roll, 
From  alien  hands  that  seek  my  soul, 

From  lips  that  would  betray. 

PART  II. 

Now  will  I  sing  a  glad  new  song 

And  with  each  string  Thy  praise  prolong, 

For  Thou  hast  heard  my  prayer. 
Salvation  Thou  dost  give  to  kings, 
Thine  own  dost  keep,  with  sheltering  wings. 

From  hurtful  sword  and  snare. 

O  let  our  sons,  in  strength  and  truth. 
Appear  as  plants  full  grown  in  youth. 
The  glory  of  our  land. 

Psalm  CXLIV. 

124 


Lyrics  from  the  Psalter 


Our  daughters  shine  in  each  fair  grace, 
As  pillars  polished  for  their  place 
In  palace  halls  to  stand. 

Our  garners  filled  all  stores  shall  yield; 
Our  flocks,  secure  in  fold  and  field, 

By  myriads  shall  increase. 
The  laden  oxen  shall  not  faint, 
And  in  our  streets  the  piteous  plaint, 

The  cry  for  help  shall  cease. 

O  happy  people!  favored  land! 

To  whom  the  Lord,  with  liberal  hand, 

Such  blessings  doth  accord! 
Yea,  happy  is  that  people  blest 
Of  whom  it  is  by  all  confessed 

Their  God  is  Christ  the  Lord. 


CXLVL 

Praise  ye  the  Lord,  our  King! 
Jehovah's  praises  sing, 

O  thou  my  soul! 
While  He  prolongs  my  days, 
Will  I  Jehovah  praise, 
And  with  all  gladsome  lays 

My  God  extol. 


In  princes  of  the  earth- 
Sons  of  but  mortal  birth- 
Put  not  your  trust. 


Psalms  CXLIV.  and  CXLVL 

125 


Lyrics  from  the  Psalter 


Their  breath  flies  fast  away, 
They  soon  return  to  clay, 
Their  thoughts,  that  very  day, 
Are  but  as  dust. 

But  he  is  ever  blest, 

Whose  help  and  hope  all  rest 

In  God  the  Lord — 
Who  hath  the  heavens  arrayed, 
Who  earth's  foundations  laid, 
And  seas  and  all  things  made 

By  His  great  word. 

He  truth  forever  keeps. 
His  justice  never  sleeps 

For  those  oppressed; 
The  sufiferer's  cry  He  heeds. 
With  bread  the  hungry  feeds, 
And  forth  the  captive  leads, 

With  freedom  blessed. 

The  blinded  eye  He  clears, 

Lifts  those  bowed  down  in  tears, 

And  loves  His  saints. 
The  stranger  He  befriends. 
The  fatherless  defends, 
The  widow's  prayer  attends, 

Whose  lone  heart  faints. 

Soon  shall  the  wicked  learn 
How  He  will  overturn 
Their  evil  ways. 


Psalm  CXLVI. 

126 


Lyrics  from  the  Psalter 


The  Lord  shall  ever  reign, 
And  still  thy  God  remain; 
Praise  Him  with  joyful  strain, 
O  Zion,  praise! 


CXLVII. 

vv.   I-II. 

Praise  ye  the  Lord,  our  God  and  King, 
For  it  is  good  to  Him  to  sing 

In  hymns  of  grateful  praise; 
Yea,  it  is  pleasant  and  most  meet 
To  praise,  with  song  and  music  sweet, 

His  wondrous  works  and  ways. 

The  Lord,  O  Zion,  builds  thy  walls, 
And  home  again  thy  children  calls 

From  exile  long  and  sad. 
He  heals  the  broken,  bleeding  heart, 
Binds  up  its  wounds  and  soothes  their  smart. 

And  makes  the  mourner  glad. 

He  numbers  all  the  stars  of  light. 

Gives  each  its  name,  and  through  the  night 

Their  marshalled  hosts  He  leads. 
And  thus  the  Lord  His  people  knows. 
Calls  them  by  name,  before  them  goes, 

And  in  green  pastures  feeds. 

The  Lord  is  great,  and  great  His  might, 
His  understanding  infinite — 
A  deep  no  thought  can  sound. 

Psalms  CXLVL  and  CXLVII. 

127 


Lyrics  from  the  Psalter 


The  Lord  will  help  the  meek  to  stand, 
But  wicked  men,  His  mighty  hand 
Will  humble  to  the  ground. 

Now  to  the  Lord  give  thanks  and  sing, 
Yea,  to  our  God  your  music  bring. 

His  lofty  praise  to  show. 
He  forms  the  clouds,  prepares  the  rain, 
And  on  the  mountain  side  and  plain 

He  makes  the  grass  to  grow. 

He  gives  the  forest  beast  his  food. 
And  feeds  the  hungry,  clamorous  brood 

Within  the  raven's  nest. 
No  creature  strength  is  His  delight, 
But  only  they  who  fear  His  might 

And  on  His  mercy  rest. 


CXLVH. 

VV.    12-20. 

Jerusalem,  thy  Saviour  sing. 
Yea,  to  thy  God,  O  Zion,  bring 

Thy  glad  rejoicing  lays! 
For  He  has  made  thy  bulwarks  strong, 
And  blessed  thy  children's  happy  throng 

Within  thy  gates  of  praise. 

'Tis  He  that  makes  thy  borders  peace, 
And  gives  thee  from  thy  fields'  increase 
The  finest  of  the  wheat. 

Psalm  CXLVII. 

128 


Lyrics  fram  the  Psalter 


To  do  His  will,  His  word  He  sends, 
That  swiftly  runs  to  earth's  far  ends. 
Its  service  to  complete. 

He  gives,  like  wool,  the  fleecy  snow; 
The  frost,  like  ashes,  to  and  fro 

He  scatters  o'er  the  land; 
Like  crumbs  He  casts  abroad  His  hail, 
And  who,  when  roars  the  wintry  gale, 

Before  His  cold  can  stand? 

But  soon  He  sends  His  word  of  might 
To  melt  the  bonds  of  winter's  night 

And  wake  the  joyful  spring. 
He  bids  the  vernal  breezes  blow; 
The  ice  dissolves,  the  waters  flow, 

And  birds  begin  to  sing. 

But  O  the  richer  gifts  of  grace, 
Bestowed  upon  His  chosen  race 

To  whom  He  gave  His  word! 
He  thus  hath  dealt  with  them  alone, 
No  others  have  His  statutes  known, 

O  Israel,  praise  the  Lord! 


CXLVIII. 

From  heaven  O  praise  the  Lord! 

In  heights  His  glory  raise! 
Ye  angels  praise  accord, 

Yea,  all  His  host  give  praise! 

Psalms  CXLVII.  and  CXLVIII. 

129 


Lyrics  from  the  Psalter 


Your  praise  prepare, 
Sun,  moon,  and  star; 
Ye  heavens  afar; 

Ye  waters  there! 


Yea,  let  them  glorious  make 
Jehovah's  matchless  name; 
For  when  the  word  He  spake, 
They  all  to  being  came ; 
Unmoved  for  aye 
They  steadfast  stand 
By  His  command, 
Which  all  obey. 


From  earth  O  praise  the  Lord, 

Ye  deeps  and  all  below; 
Wild  winds  that  do  His  word; 
Ye  clouds,  fire,  hail,  and  snow! 
Your  praise  with  these, 
Ye  mountains,  bring; 
Ye  cedars,  sing. 
With  fruitful  trees. 


Wild  beasts  and  creeping  things; 

All  cattle;  birds  that  fly; 
All  peoples  and  their  kings; 
Earth's  judges,  princes  high; 
By  youth  and  maid. 
By  old  and  young, 
Let  praise  be  sung 
And  tribute  paid. 

Psalm  CXLVIII. 

130 


Lyrics  from  the  Psalter 


O  praise  Jehovah's  name, 

His  name  alone  is  great; 
O'er  earth  and  heaven  His  fame; 
And  high  His  saints'  estate. 
Your  praise  accord, 
O  Israel's  race 
That  know  His  grace. 
Praise  ye  the  Lord! 


CXLIX. 

O  praise  ye  the  Lord! 
A  new  song  prepare; 
With  saints  in  accord 
His  praises  declare! 
Her  Maker,  all  glorious,  let  Zion  now  sing! 
Her  children  victorious  exult  in  their  King! 

Yea,  praise  ye  His  name 
With  dancing  and  joy! 
The  timbrel's  acclaim 

With  harp-strings  employ! 
For  great  is  the  pleasure  in  Zion  He  takes, 
And  grace  without  measure  her  beauty  He  makes. 


Let  saints  with  delight 

Exultingly  praise 
His  glory  so  bright 
That  crowneth  their  days! 
And  when  for  sweet  slumber  they  pillow  their  head, 
Their  joys  without  number  still  sing  on  their  bed. 

Psalms  CXLVIII.  and  CXLIX. 

131 


Lyrics  from  the  Psalter 


God's  praises  they  sing, 
But  bear  in  their  hand 
The  sword  of  the  King, 
And  wait  His  command. 
This  honor  possessing,  ye  saints  now  accord 
All  honor  and  blessing!  O  Praise  ye  the  Lord! 


CL. 

O  praise  ye  the  Lord!  God's  praises  recite; 
Praise  Him  in  His  courts  for  acts  of  His  might. 
Praise  Him  in  the  firmament  strong  where  He  dwells. 
According  as  He  in  His  greatness  excels. 

The  trumpet's  loud  blast,  the  psaltery  sweet, 
The  timbrel  and  harp  with  jubilant  feet, 
The  strings  and  the  organ  with  cymbals  of  joy, 
The  high-sounding  cymbals,  to  praise  Him  employ. 

Thus  let  every  voice  the  whole  world  around, 
Yea,  all  things  that  breathe  His  praises  resound. 
Let  all  to  Jehovah  their  praises  accord. 
And  sing — Hallelujah!    O  Praise  ye  the  Lord! 


CL. 

Praise  ye  the  Lord  in  the  courts  of  His  holiness! 

Praise  in  the  heights  of  His  firmament  strong! 
Praise  for  the  wonderful  acts  of  His  mightiness! 

Praise  for  His  excellent  greatness  prolong! 


Psalms  CXLIX.  and  CL. 

132 


I 


Lyrics  from  the  Psalter 


Praise  Him  with  sound  of  the  trumpet  and  psaltery! 

Timbrel  and  harp  in  His  praises  employ! 
Praise    Him    with    strings'    and    with    pipes'    sweetest 
melody! 

Praise  Him  with  loud-sounding  cymbals  of  joy! 

Voices  and  instruments,  swell  ye  the  harmony! 

Peal  forth  His  praises  in  perfect  accord! 
Everything  breathing,  in  loftiest  psalmody, 

Praise  ye  Jehovah!     O  Praise  ye  the  Lord! 


DOXOLOGY. 

Here  in  His  courts,  O  praise  the  Lord  ! 
Ye  hosts  above  your  praise  accord ! 
His  all-excelling  greatness  praise, 
And  all  His  wondrous  works  and  ways ! 

All  music's  gladdest  strains  employ, 
To  swell  the  chorus  of  your  joy! 
Let  all  that  breathe  His  praises  sing! 
Praise  ye  the  Lord,  our  Saviour,  King  I 


Psalm  CL. 

133 


